Preliminary Verification of Experimental Tests of the Explosion Resistance of Composite Steel-Concrete Elements Made of UHPFRC and NSC

Abstract Resistance of structures to blast effects currently represents one of the key topics in structural engineering. Explosions generate extreme dynamic localized loads that can cause severe damage or even failure of structures not specifically designed for such loading. Considering the outstanding mechanical performance and durability of ultra high-performance fibre reinforced concrete, as well as the favourable blast response of steel-concrete composite systems, the use of this modern cementitious material instead of conventional concrete in composite elements can significantly increase their blast resistance. This paper presents an overview of a preparation of experimental program in which composite steel–concrete slabs and columns were manufactured and tested. Within the experimental program, steel elements, as well as composite elements with normal-strength concrete and ultra high-performance fibre reinforced concrete infill, were prepared and subjected to blast loading. The main objective was to evaluate the influence of the concrete material and the type of steel– concrete interaction on the overall blast resistance. The paper provides a detailed description of the specimen fabrication process, material properties of the applied concrete mixtures, experimental setup, and a concise discussion of the obtained results.