METHODOLOGICAL APPROACHES TO TESTING THE ABILITY OF A FORTIFIED STRUCTURE (SHELTER) TO WITHSTAND SNOW LOAD

The current challenges of the russian-ukrainian war require addressing the issue of protection for both the defence forces' personnel and the civilian population. To this end, fortified structures and protective shelters are used, which are subject to the effects not only of military but also natural factors that create additional loads and affect the operational suitability, stability, and durability of these structures. Among such factors are atmospheric precipitation in the form of snow. The main negative effects of snow cover on structures manifest through: snow accumulation and excessive loading: a large mass of snow creates additional static load on structures, which can lead to deformation or collapse; impact on soil reinforcements: when snow melts, it turns into large volumes of water, which may cause flooding of underground Water penetrating the soil weakens its structure and can cause landslides or the collapse of embankments; frost damage to materials: snow entering cracks in concrete or wood expands upon freezing, creating internal pressure that enlarges cracks and gradually destroys the structure. Freeze-thaw cycles are especially dangerous for concrete and metal elements, as they promote corrosion, accelerate material degradation, and lead to mechanical The readiness of a structure for use, as well as its reliability and resistance to snow loads, is determined through testing conducted by specialists of the State Scientific Research Institute of Armament and Military Equipment Testing and Certification according to established testing programs and methodologies. The calculation method for snow loads and their impact on building structures is regulated by both European standards and national standards adapted from them, as well as state construction norms. However, testing the snow load resistance of specifically fortified structures and protective shelters requires improving existing approaches to checking these specific types. As a result of the conducted study, methodological approaches are proposed for testing the ability of fortified structures (protective shelters) to withstand the impact of snow load that will allow testers to speed up the preparation process using developed calculation options and objectively assess the structural resistance to the destructive impact of one of the hazardous natural factors. In turn, the test results will enable manufacturers to identify weak points in the structure, improve its design and protective functions to ensure the safety of both military personnel and the civilian population.