Progress in the study of load characteristics of underwater explosions and structural damage to ships

Abstract Underwater explosions can cause serious damage to ship structures, resulting in the loss of operational capability and human lives. Therefore, research in this area is of great significance. Firstly, the progress of underwater explosion loads is discussed from two perspectives: the full-sequence characteristics of underwater blast loads and the non-linear response of ships subjected to underwater blast impacts. Secondly, the progress of underwater blast damage to ship structures is summarized with regard to the diversity and uncertainty of damage modes in ship space-frame structures. Finally, the applicability of structural damage effect models under different blast loads is compared and analyzed. So far, research on related issues has mainly focused on theoretical analysis and numerical simulation. This review summarizes comparative analyses and proposes further research directions, aiming to provide a reference for studies on the full-sequence characteristics of underwater explosions and the structural damage of ships.