A New Method for the Arresting of Underground Tunnel Explosions

In this paper a new method for the arresting of tunnel explosions is presented. In the proposed technique, the on coming explosion is detected by a pressure sensitive device by a pre-determined rise in static pressure. The sensor then triggers a mechanism which causes the explosion door to be closed in a specially constructed concrete barrier zone. The doors are of a special construction and consist of perforated steel plates that allow part of the blast wave to be transmitted but do not allow the passage of the flame. A number of design parameters have been identified, including: the likely amplitudes of the transmitted/reflected pressure waves that would govern the explosion door pressure loading; thickness of the perforated steel packages; perforation dimensions; heat transfer across the door and other factors.