Numerical analysis of the structural response of RC-framed buildings subjected to internal explosions

Internal gas explosions can lead to structural failures which seriously compromises the static of a building, both in civil and industrial structures, and in some cases can involve the consequent entire structure’ failure. The main purpose of this paper is to numerically reproduce the damage effects caused by a vented explosion in a multi-storey framed reinforced concrete structure with masonry infill walls. ANSYS AUTODYN® has been used to manage both the structural (Lagrangian solver) and the fluid-dynamic (Eulerian solver) issues and to make feasible their interactions. The analysis focuses on the gas mixture usually used for domestic purposes mainly consisting by methane (80 % v/v) and completed by ethane, propane and n-butane. In conclusion, applying corrects material properties and the analyzed pressure wave, the focus is on the damages of structure.