Optimum Defensive Retrofitting Methods of Critical Buildings Against Explosion Loads

Different defensive methods are usually available to improve the resistance of existing critical buildings against catastrophic effects of explosion loads to ensure continuing services and protection of lives. The optimum retrofitting method is the one that through technical and economic considerations reduces the rate of damage to equipment, existing buildings and the possible human casualties. This paper presents a procedure to determine the best defensive retrofitting alternative using AHP and TOPSIS techniques. Application of developed procedure in retrofitting a group of critical concrete buildings identifies the specific method of "Adding Wall" as the best alternative against explosion loads of this type of buildings.