Blast Loading of Small Buried Arches

The objective of the work represented by this report was to gain information which will serve as a guide in developing design methods for underground structures. In pursuit of this goal, preliminary tests have been conducted on small buried arches to determine the influence of the dominant parameters. Information has been obtained on the response to long-, medium-, and short-duration blast loads including the deflection, thrust, and moment patterns. One static test also was performed. Curves showing the form of arching under static and blast loading are given. In addition, buckling and the variation of interface pressure are discussed briefly. The response of the buried arches consisted primarily of a body motion upon which was superimposed the first inextensional symmetrical mode of vibration. As the entire structure moved downward, the sides moved outward slightly and then inward.