Publisher's Synopsis
Considerable experimental and theoretical progress in the understanding of explosions in offshore structures has been made over the last decade. This report reviews this progress with special emphasis on the degree of implementation of the new knowledge gained into optimisation of structural design. Remaining areas of uncertainty are highlighted. The state-of-the-art of knowledge at time of Piper Alpha in a) explosion loading prediction and b) explosion response of structures is covered in a brief resume. Relevant explosion research, worldwide, since Piper Alpha is then reviewed, concentrating on new experimental studies and their interpretation and basic improvements in phenomenological understanding. Progress in modelling and tools available for predicting explosion loading (including ability to cope with inhomogeneous release scenarios, water spray mitigation etc) and explosion response is addressed.
