Behavior and simplified analysis of steel-concrete composite beams subjected to localized blast loading

Finite element simulations are increasingly used in structural analysis and design, especially in cases where complex structural and loading conditions are involved. Due to considerable progresses in computer technology as well as nonlinear finite-element analysis techniques in past years, it has become possible to pursue an accurate analysis of the complex blast-induced structural effects by means of numerical simulations. This paper aims to develop a better understanding of the behavior of steel-concrete composite beams (SCCB) under localized blast loading through a numerical parametric study. A finite element model is set up to simulate the blast-resistant features of SCCB using the transient dynamic analysis software LS-DYNA. It is demonstrated that there are three dominant failure modes for SCCB subjected to localized blast loading. The effect of loading position on the behavior of SCCB is also investigated. Finally, a simplified model is proposed for assessing the overall response of SCCB subjected to localized blast loading.