Blast/fire interaction, blast translation, and toxic gases. Final report, Jul 1975--Jun 1976
This study reports experimental and analytical effects of the blast environment within structures on fires, people, and objects, and with toxic gases created by burning debris. The program was directed toward improving the knowledge of factors that can influence the effectiveness of shelters and of other countermeasures that can contribute toward reduction of casualties and saving of life. The experimental study of blast/fire interaction was carried out with long duration flow effects (resembling those from megaton range weapons) on flaming materials. It was found that blast extinguishment of fires was strongly dependent on location of the burning material in the room, and on the type of materials. Lightweight materials were extinguished in portions of the room that experienced high velocity flows; heavier materials were never totally extinguished. In four long duration tests conducted with anthropomorphic dummies in room and chamber environments, it was found that the high velocities generated near entrances and exits (and well within a room in some geometries) caused objects and the mannikins to acquire velocities that were potentially injurious or lethal. Simple analytical models of wall debris translation indicated that, even at low overpressures, both lightweight (e.g., sheetrock) and heavy (masonry) walls can generate debris which is potentially casualty-producing. A literature search on toxic gases produced by burning debris (as might be found in the vicinity of shelters) concluded that lethal concentrations of CO could be encountered.
- Research Organization:
- URS Research Co., San Mateo, CA (USA)
- OSTI ID:
- 7323372
- Report Number(s):
- AD-A-031216; URS-7239-11
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
Similar Records
Experimental extinguishment of fires by blast. Final report
Experimental extinguishment of fires by blast. Final report