Enhancing Anti-Blast Capabilities of Pipelines with High-Performance Composite CFRP Laminate: Computational Fluid Dynamics-Based Predictive Analysis

Abstract Recent explosions highlighted the need for a thorough investigation to understand the impact of these explosions on critical infrastructural systems and networks like pipelines. This paper provides an essential understanding for developing safety protocols and interventions, strengthening resilience, enhancing public safety, mitigating socio-economic consequences, and ensuring sustained progress. Shallow buried conduits, crucial for transporting water, oil, and gas over long distances, face explosion risks due to conflicts, sabotage, terrorism, corrosion, and accidental damage. Recent blast incidents in San Francisco and Lagos underscore the devastating effects of conduit malfunctions, necessitating rigorous safety measures and technological innovations. In this research, an empty pipeline measuring 26.20 mm in thickness and subjected to a detonation initiated upon its uppermost surface is emulated, utilising the sophisticated computational capabilities of Abaqus software, integrating principles of computational fluid dynamics. Following a meticulous validation process achieved via mesh refinement analysis, the study expands to scrutinise two additional detonation scenarios — positioned above and below the pipe’s surface — while adhering to a steadfast standoff distance of 25mm. The primary objective of this scholarly endeavour is to ameliorate the deleterious repercussions inflicted upon the conduit by explosive forces, envisioning a scenario where deformation occurs without immediate rupture. To this end, a 0.15 mm thick and 200mm wide laminate composed of composite CFRP with 0°/90° fibre orientation is strategically affixed onto the upper half segment of each pipe model at the impacted region, serving as a fortification measure aimed at bolstering areas of susceptibility and potentially diminishing the magnitude of ensuing blast-induced impairment. Comparative analysis of the pipe’s performance, both with and without the applied laminate, is meticulously conducted to discern the effectiveness of this intervention. The results demonstrate a significant reduction in plastic damage with the utilisation of laminate, with models integrating CFRP experiencing an average decrease of approximately 39.94% compared to those without it. It highlights the efficacy of CFRP in protecting pipeline structural integrity against blast events.