Comparative Study of Three Cellular Materials Under Blast and Sustained Shock Wave

Abstract

This study investigates the mechanical response of three cellular materials—polyisocyanurate (PIR), autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC), and Aluminum Lightweight Foam (ALF, Nufoam® 140)—under blast and shock loading conditions. The research aims to provide experimental data for optimizing building protection against explosion hazards. Laboratory-scale tests were conducted using a shock tube to generate blast and sustained shock waves. The materials' responses were analyzed using high-speed imaging and digital image correlation.Results indicate that PIR exhibits significant deformation under sustained shocks but shows recovery under blast loading. AAC demonstrates erosion-based energy dissipation, with material loss concentrated at the extremities. ALF, serving as a reference, shows excellent mechanical energy dissipation. The study highlights the potential of these materials for applications requiring both thermal insulation and blast resistance, contributing to the development of predictive tools and larger-scale experiment designs.

Keywords: Cellular Material, Shock Tube, Blast, Insulation, Attenuation, protection