Applications of Blast/FX, an explosive effects analysis software tool

Recent events have highlighted the threat posed by terrorist bombings. To address these evolving security concerns, the FAA identified the need to have an improved capability to assess the effects of explosions against civil aviation facilities and their occupants. For many engineers and security specialists, the need to assess the risks to buildings from explosions represents a new and often imposing requirement. However, by analyzing the relationships between blast, structural response, and the response of exposed individuals, it is often possible to reduce risks to more acceptable levels. The paper discusses Blast/FX explosive effects analysis software which was developed for the FAA by TRW to meet the needs of security and engineering professionals concerned about the threat of explosions. Blast/FX allows analysts to quickly and efficiently create a representation of the structure they are concerned about, place individuals in the facility at realistic locations, specify explosive device(s) of concern, and estimate the effects of such devices in terms of structural damage and casualties. These analyses can then be used to answer security improvement questions, evaluate alternative precautionary measures, and assist in establishing explosive threat security policies and procedures