A Case Study in Analyzing the Response of Structures to a Jet Fuel Vapor-Phase Explosion

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Abstract
Hydrocarbon vapor-phase explosions have long been known to create destructive overpressure and impulse loads when ignited both inside and outside buildings. This creates a hazard to both building structural elements and personnel. We have recently implemented the Baker-Strehlow and Baker-Strehlow-Tang curves into our Blast Analysis Module (BAM) code which computes the performance of structural members exposed to air-blast to determine component level of damage. A case study on the design of an internal laboratory cell to an accidental vapor-phase explosion of jet-fuel will be presented. The lab is 3150 sq. ft. with a 31 ft. high roof, and it is internal to a larger multi-story structure (approx. 35,000 sq. ft.). This cell must be designed to survive an explosion with a level of damage that prohibits collapse and personnel fatality, and it may be vented to the atmosphere to reduce the internal gas pressure as described by ASCE. The case-study will document the overpressure and impulse time history inside the lab cell, demonstrate the implications of structural hardening of the walls and roof with deflagration venting, and the final design with the response of the system.

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