Investigating the performance of arched concrete shear wall with opening against blast loads

Blast load is a load with a dynamic nature similar to an earthquake, with the difference that its effects take much less time than an earthquake, are more intense, and directly affect the structure itself. Therefore, in this case, in addition to carrying out the usual retrofitting, it is necessary to reduce this explosive effect by changing the architecture of the structure. One of the solutions for this problem is the dual-purpose use of seismic elements such as shear walls, which can not only resist earthquakes but also resist explosive loads. Meanwhile, concrete structures have shown good resistance to explosion compared to steel structures, and one of the design methods in these types of structures is the use of concrete shear walls. One of the solutions to reduce the dimensions of the columns is to use a concrete shear wall. One of the capabilities of this method is the possibility of creating an opening in it, and it reduces the limitations created in the architectural discussion. In this research, the performance of arched concrete shear wall with opening against explosive load has been investigated, and the considered samples with and without opening have been compared. Also, the effect of compressive strength of concrete has been investigated. Finally, it was determined that when creating the opening, full care and inspection should be done and the area around the opening should be reinforced. Arched concrete shear wall with 10 cm thick opening has performed best against explosive load.