An investigation to optimize the layout of protective blast barriers using finite element modelling

The past has shown that the risk of terrorism is on the rise as can be seen in many events. Terrorist attacks such as the 2004 Madrid bombings, the 2005 London bombings, the 2013 Boston bombing and the 2017 Manchester bombings have shown the impact acts of terrorism has on the public. Nowadays, terrorist attack is likely to increase in the wider area in the future together with a higher density in train passengers. Previous researches into protective measures have been focused on the structure. However, the impacts of terrorist attack on human have not been fully investigated. The needs for protective measures for the public have never been greater. This research aims to investigate the optimum layout for protective blast barriers situated on a train station platform using finite element analysis. The 3-dimensional structure is modelled and analysed using LS-DYNA.The focus is placed on an island platform at Birmingham New Street Station, which is one deemed to be at high risk of terrorist threats. Two shapes of barriers were tested, straight and angled. A total of six models were created and tested against two scenarios. Scenario one is a bomb placed on the ground, scenario two is a bomb being carried. The results focus on the impact the pressure created from the blast has on a person’s lungs and head. Both can cause the most fatalities due to bombings. The results demonstrated that the shape of the barriers had no effect on the pressure. However, it can be concluded that an increase in the number of barriers, reduced the pressure below the critical amount for lung damage. Increasing the number of intervening objects between the bomb and target has a positive effect on the reduction of blast pressure. The insight into this study will help railway and structural engineers to establish strategic preventing methods to minimise catastrophic damage to and potential losses of the public.