A novel offshore platform blast wall design with energy absorption mechanism

Blast-walls are important structures in offshore platforms. It is difficult for traditional designs to meet code-compliances on wall deflection and weld tear-out. This study proposes a novel design using flexible supports filled with polymethacrylimide foam and rotational springs, allowing the wall to slide/rotate certain distances/angles to reduce the high stresses at supports and dissipate energy through foam deformations. Analytical model with numerical validation is developed to demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness this design concept. Around 40% reduction in deflection and less than 5% plastic strains at welded supports are achieved. Guidance for optimal design are also provided through parametric study.