Author(s)

V. Benz, J. Lorenzo, R. Pyles, R. Rumer & K. Wiecking

Abstract

An innovative polycarbonate-based blast-mitigating system has been developed and shown to offer building protection from air-borne pressure waves produced by a blast event. The system can be tailored to protect against a range of threat levels. The system, containing a high-tech polycarbonate laminate, can protect building exteriors as well as provide a decorative appearance. It can be adapted to existing (retrofit) and new buildings as well. To simulate a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device (VBIED), open-arena blast testing has demonstrated the capabilities of this system to protect a masonry wall from significant blast pressures. Advanced modelling has been conducted to predict the system performance. The benefits of a blast mitigating façade are discussed within the scope of open-arena blast tests and an outlook toward future applications is given. Keywords: blast mitigation, polycarbonate laminate, building facade protection, Hygard BL80.

Keywords

blast mitigation, polycarbonate laminate, building facade protection, Hygard BL80