Multiple blast behavior of steel wire mesh reinforced geopolymer based high performance concrete (G‐ <scp>HPC</scp> ) slab: Experiment and numerical simulation

Abstract Engineering structures face the potential of encountering repetitive or multiple blast loads stemming from accidental explosions and terrorist attacks. However, current research in this field is still relatively limited, and further investigation is needed to understand the damage mechanisms of structures under multiple explosions. Therefore, this study explores the blast resistance of G‐HPC slabs reinforced with steel wire mesh (SWM) under multiple blast loads. The failure modes of the SWM‐reinforced G‐HPC slab were experimentally studied under two consecutive explosions (with explosive equivalents of 1.6 and 3.2 kg, both at a standoff distance of 0.4 m). The results revealed that, after two consecutive explosions, the slab exhibited bulging with minimal concrete spalling, showcasing overall integrity. Subsequently, a numerical model was established, followed by a comprehensive parameter analysis. The parameter analysis investigated the effects of SWM diameters and grid size, the arrangement of SWM, and the sequence of TNT equivalents on the performance of the slab under three consecutive blast loads. The findings revealed that increasing the SWM diameter or reducing the grid size significantly enhanced the blast resistance of the slab under three consecutive explosive loads. Strategically arranging the SWM in the tensile zone reduced damage and deflection. Furthermore, the sequence of TNT equivalents had a notable impact on the damage and energy absorption of the slab.