Evaluation of Concrete Barriers Using Finite-Element Analysis: Analysis Guidelines Using LS-DYNA

Highway safety structures, such as concrete traffic barriers, are constantly evolving primarily due to the increased size of average vehicles on roads. Physical testing of hardware is an expensive and extensive procedure, where the failure of any one of the tests requires redesign and retesting. Finite-element (FE) modeling using simulation software such as LS-DYNA is considered a reliable option to test existing structures as well as new modified designs prior to carrying out the required physical testing. An extensive search of available literature on FE evaluation of longitudinal concrete barriers (i.e., barriers used on highways longitudinally to separate traffic in either direction and also placed in work zones for safety applications) was performed. Among the available FE modeling software, it was discovered that LS-DYNA is suitable for performing full-scale crash simulation on concrete barriers. This article presents a comprehensive review of the available literature from researchers who have performed safety evaluations of concrete barriers and have used LS-DYNA as a FE modeling tool in their research. The review focuses on how the evaluation of concrete barriers (both fixed and portable) is carried out and verified with real crash tests. A review of the current state of the practice for modeling procedures is also included. Step-by-step guidelines for developing an FE model of a barrier and setting up the simulation process are presented.