This book compiles a variety of experimental data on blast waves. The book begins with an introductory chapter and proceeds to the topic of blast wave phenomenology, with a discussion on Rankine-Hugoniot equations and the Friedlander equation, used to describe the pressure-time history of a blast wave. Additional topics include arrival time measurement, the initiation of detonation by exploding wires, a discussion of TNT equivalency, and small scale experiments. Gaseous and high explosive detonations are covered as well. The topics and experiments covered were chosen based on the comparison of used scale sizes, from small to large. Each characteristic parameter of blast waves is analyzed and expressed versus scaled distance in terms of energy and mass. Finally, the appendix compiles a number of polynomial laws that will prove indispensable for engineers and researchers.

This guide is aimed at all engineers and architects involved in building design, focusing on the importance of constructing buildings which minimise damage to people and property in the event of an explosion.

Project 1.7 of Operation TEAPOT was concerned with the measurement of surface and subsurface effects of an underground explosion of a 1.2-kt nuclear burst (Shot 7). The measurements included free-field earth and airblast effects, as well as loading on underground structural devices. This report deals with the presentation and analysis of the free-field data only; the structural data have been transmitted to the appropriate agencies for their analysis. From the 76 channels installed on TEAPOT Shot 7, 75 usable records were obtained. The free-field quantities measured include air-blast pressure, earth acceleration, earth stress and strain, and permanent earth displacement. The results are discussed by phenomenon and, in each case, the TEAPOT data are compared with pretest predictions. Also, where data are available, comparisons are made with previous underground nuclear test results. Some aspects of seismology and soil mechanics as applied to underground explosion phenomena are presented and, finally, the most pertinent high explosives results from subsequent tests conducted at the TEAPOT location are summarized. (Author).

Reflects developments in the field of blast engineering since the early 1990s. Combining coverage of the design standards, codes and materials with an appreciation of the needs and demands of the designer, this book provides the engineer with a comprehensive source of reference for the main elements of blast engineering design in modern practice.