Shock Load Capacity of Concrete Expansion Anchoring Systems in Uncracked Concrete

Abstract

Concrete anchoring systems are commonly used in blast resistant wall systems. These anchoring systems are often subjected to large tensile forces in a short time during an external blast event. Previous research has been conducted on anchoring systems to evaluate their response to cyclic and “shock” loads; however, the ultimate capacities of these systems were not determined, and tests were conducted at relatively slow loading rates. In this paper, testing has been performed to determine the ultimate capacity of various expansion anchors at high loading rates, which is characteristic of most blast events. Ultimately, concrete expansion anchors perform differently at high loading rates and some show improved ultimate performance. This paper will present the experimental findings and provide recommendations for anchor design under blast loads.