FOR 500:  Computer Aided Destruction of Complex Structures Using Controlled Explosives

• Subject Area: Construction Engineering and Architecture
• Term: from 2003 to 2009
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 5470077

The prime aims of the Research Unit are the development and improvement of simulation models for the destruction of complex structures, in particular high-rise reinforced concrete buildings using controlled explosives. The individual models form the fundamentals for a realistic computer simulation to support the planning process of a demolition using controlled explosives and to select a verified optimal demolition strategy. Thereby, particular attention is to be paid to safety aspects as well as to economic efficiency. The simulation models are based on a multi-level model of the blasting process applying modern computing methods and computational mechanics.Three main levels can be identified: On a first level (local level) the effects of the ignition of the explosive charges are modelled such that the damages can be described. On a second level (near field level) the effects of the local damages on the adjacent structure are analysed. Based on the first and second level, the collapse of the entire structure finally is modelled on a third level (global level) including fracture processes and contact mechanisms. The simulation models also incorporate fuzziness on different levels because the non-deterministic character of available data and applied models is obvious.

• DFG Programme: Research Units

Projects

• Experimental investigation and numerical simulation of reinforced concrete structures subjected to blasting (Applicant Stempniewski, Lothar )
• Investigations of effects of explosive charges to the mid range area - development of efficient and robust 3D-elements, adaptive calculations coupling with rigid body simulations (Applicant Schweizerhof, Karl )
• Numerical simulation of blasting processes under consideration of data and model uncertainty (Applicant Graf, Wolfgang )
• Object-Oriented Software-System for Multi-Levbel Simulation and Optimization of demoliton Processes using controlled explosives (Applicant Hartmann, Dietrich )
• Resistance line in critical structure areas of collapsing steel reinforced systems during implosion (Applicant Stangenberg, Friedhelm )

• Spokesperson: Professor Dr.-Ing. Dietrich Hartmann