Multiphysics modeling and characterization of explosively loaded aluminum blocks

A coupled Eulerian–Lagrangian finite element simulation is made of an aluminum block of dimensions 4 × 2 × 1/2 in (101.6 × 50.8 × 12.7 mm) subjected to an intensive shock load at its top. The shock load was introduced by the detonation of plastic explosives which were attached to the top of the block. The objective is to determine the effect of the shock on the deformation history of the metallic block accounting for strain rate effects. The dynamic response of the block to the high-pressure pulse was simulated by taking into account the resulting elasto-plastic deformation, the solid–fluid interaction and the adiabatic temperature rise. The dynamics of the transient stresses below the loaded surface was captured by our model. Three aspects of the explosive shock load were accordingly examined: (i) the explosive thickness and (ii) the explosive overhang length and thickness upon the resulting deformation pattern. Upon the complete dissipation of the shock, we were able to determine the distribution of the residual stress in the principal directions. Compressive residual stresses were observed in the region at and below the surface of the loaded end. The above predictions were experimentally validated using explosively loaded aluminum blocks. The experimental findings revealed general agreement with the finite element predictions of both the deformation pattern and the residual stresses.