Local strain response of maritime structures under accidental loading

Abstract

Crashworthiness and accidental loading simulations of steel maritime structures are often performed using shell elements that might not capture the correct strain and stress localizations post-necking. This work assesses the dominant strain states appearing in such simulations. Moreover, the difference between practical shell simulations and solid simulations is analyzed by applying both elements to several realistic representative blast and impact scenarios with different material models. Strain patterns were then observed and compared between solids and shells. Generalized plane strain deformation dominated all cases where it was either imposed by geometric boundaries or transitioned to them post-necking initiation. Shells were incapable of capturing necking and strain localization reflected by solids within the plate. Results were closer for strain localization at geometric boundaries, but indicative of the role geometric details can play. Shells captured strains due to bending efficiently, but those due to membrane stresses were only captured up to necking initiation.