Connections have a very important role in preventing structural progressive collapse. For example, in the case of loss of a column connection behaviour is critical in permitting beams to bridge over the lost element and allowing transfer of the vertical loads through catenary action. To develop this catenary action in...

For finite-sized targets, the presence of target edges is known to significantly alter the blast pressure acting on the loaded face in a process known as clearing – diffraction of the blast wave around the target which causes a relief wave to sweep in from the edges of the reflecting...

We study the mechanical behaviour of micro lattices (also known as micro-trusses) under a range of loading conditions. Where applicable, we apply homogenisation and continualisation principles to derive higher-order gradient theories with a transparent interpretation of the emerging internal length scales. Under elastic loading conditions, the emergence of stop bands...

Much work has recently been conducted at the University of Sheffield on the characterisation of blast loading from shallow buried charges. In the past this has involved using a free flying mass impulse measurement device. This project (funded by DSTL) is concerned with the creation of a new high resolution...

Soil-filled wire and geotextile gabions are commonly used to construct perimeter walls and other defensive infrastructure in military bases. They serve to protect personnel and key assets from the effects of blast and fragmentation. The attenuating properties of soil make it a highly effective defence against such threats, and as...