Work

Dynamic response characteristics and safety assessment of canal slope pile row retaining structures under underwater blasting

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: This study investigated the control of blasting-induced vibrations in canal slope pile-row retaining structures under underwater construction conditions through a combination of field tests and numerical simulations. Dimensional analysis is performed using the Buckingham π theorem, with primary consideration given to key physical variables including the maximum charge weight per delay interval, the distance from the blast source, the elevation difference between the blast source and the structure, water depth, rock mass density, rock mass P-wave velocity, concrete density, and concrete P-wave velocity. On this basis, a blasting vibration prediction model for this type of structure is established, and a safe controlled vibration velocity is proposed. Results indicate overall coordinated deformation in low-order modes and local deformation in high-order modes under blasting loads, with elevation amplification and scattering effects: vibration velocity on the blast-opposite side exceeds that on the blast-facing side, whereas maximum principal stress shows the reverse. Central piles have stronger dynamic responses than lateral ones; pile cap ends vibrate more intensely than the center, with the opposite stress pattern. Permanent displacements along the structure are positively correlated with elevation. Dynamic response first increases then decreases with water depth, with vibration modes more sensitive to water depth when the water level is below than above the borehole collar. Reducing pile quantity increases pile cap vibration intensity but reduces stress. The proposed model shows high predictive accuracy and provides recommended safe explosive charge weights under different water depths.

Source: Structures

DOI: 10.1016/j.istruc.2026.113233

Authors: Nan Jiang, Hong Li, Xianzhong Meng, Yongsheng Jia, YingKang Yao

Institutions: Jianghan University, Jiangxi University of Science and Technology

Language: English

Topic: Blasting Impact and Analysis

Subfield: Building and Construction

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,510