Fact Sheet: Explosive Testing of Structural Components

Introduction 

The Explosive Testing of Structural Components (ETSC) was started in 1994 as a platform for the large-scale testing of DSTA's research and technology programmes in protective engineering. The evolution of ETSC is as follows: 

Explosive Testing of Structural Components (ETSC) 2017 

ETSC 2017 is conducted from 15 to 27 May 2017. It supports the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) in the design and development of mission-critical infrastructures by generating weapon effects data for vulnerability studies and protective designs. These tests also involve the validation of critical infrastructure protection measures against a spectrum of threats undertaken as part of DSTA's efforts in contributing to counter-terrorism efforts. Tests include: 

(A) Increasing Blast Resiliency with Fibre Reinforced Polymer

Tests conducted on reinforced concrete and brick walls retrofitted with FRP showed that it is 2.5 times more resistant to blast effects as compared to walls not retrofitted with FRP. This retrofit technique is a cost-effective means of enhancing the blast resiliency of existing buildings as it requires minimal tear-down and reconstruction. 

(B) Designing Arch Structure for Efficient Ammunition Storage

Debris from explosions on conventional ammunition storage facilities could be hazardous to surrounding areas. The blast test within the Arch Structure will assess new designs to minimise debris fly-out. Data collected from the tests will be used to design advanced numerical simulation models that can predict blast effects on actual-sized structures, thus minimising the need to conduct future large-scale explosion tests. The findings will also be applied to develop customised explosive storage facilities that are safer and can accommodate larger amounts of ammunition for the SAF. 

(C) Strengthening Protection of Critical Structures

The testing of reinforced concrete columns will investigate the effects of improvised explosive devices on critical structure components which carry the load of the building. These tests will also validate the use of steel jackets as a protective measure that can be applied on newly constructed buildings or to retrofit existing ones.

(D) Measuring Blast Effects of Internal Detonations

This test is conducted to gather data for the calibration of advanced simulation models to assess the vulnerability of structures in an indoor explosion. The data will used to study the spread of blast effects to adjacent rooms and distance of debris fly-out. 

(E) Enhancing Survivability of Underground Utilities

To understand the effects of blasts on underground utilities network, data collected from these tests will be used to calibrate and validate advanced numerical simulation models to assess the vulnerability of the structures. The findings can be applied to enhance the design and resilience of underground utility systems and critical equipment for infrastructures. Results will be used to aid in the development of design guidelines to enhance protection measures.

More Resources

Protective Engineering for a Safer Singapore