Nonlinear structural response of ship panels subjected to air blast loading

Abstract Square plates and stiffened panels are rundamental parts of modern warships which, in combat, could be subjected to air blast and underwater shock loads capable of causing considerable structural damage. This paper presents finite element analysis and correlation with experiment of the displacement time histories of a square steel plate exposed to normal spatially constant air blast shock waves. In addition, ADINA finite element and experimental displacement time history results are presented for a stiffened panel subjected to a shock wave from a surface explosion at the Defence Nuclear Agency's event code named MINOR SCALE.