Blast Resistant Trash Receptacles with Blast Loading Redirection–Comparative Analyses

Many terrorist attacks in the last decade around the world have exposed the vulnerability of citizens in public places. Public trash receptacles can be easily abused as well-covered places in which Improvised Explosive Devices (IED) can be simply left and then remotely activated. Therefore, blast resistance and possibility of blast loads redirection are very important characteristics of trash receptacles placed in crowded public areas. This paper presents the results of three different trash receptacles: non-blast resistant, blast resistant and blast resistant trash receptacle with blast load redirection. The results have shown that a considerable effect can be achieved by using blast resistant receptacles, thus reducing the possibility of deaths and injuries. A thickness optimization study was additionally performed, based on the size and geometry of the opening by using a finite element model. Based on the results of the study, some valuable recommendations for design of trash receptacles are also given.