Research Project: Polyurea-Coatings for Blast Mitigation

Blast resistance of Polyurea-Coated Composite Structures

Research Sponsor: National Science Foundation, CMMI Hazard Mitigation and Structural Engineering Program

The objective of this research is to understand the failure mechanisms of polyurea-coated structural systems when subjected to blast loads. Polyurea, a class of polymeric materials, exhibits outstanding properties in mitigating impact and blast hazard in structures. This research will result in the fundamental understanding of the mechanisms behind the blast resistance properties of polyurea-coated composite systems. This fundamental understanding is needed for innovation of advanced structural protection systems. Deliverables of the project include state-of-the-art computational models to predict the response of polyurea-coated composite system under blast loads, and structural and material designs for improved blast protection. The investigations will lead to better protection systems for global and national energy supply routes, such as oil and gas pipelines against natural disasters and terrorist attacks; civilian and military vehicles against improvised explosive devices, and ship hulls in the event of an under or above water explosion. Polyurea-steel composite structural systems will offer the advantages of low cost, and easy implementation to new and existing structures.