Blast Resistant Window Anchor Systems

The Canadian Safety and Security Program (CSSP) funded the University of Ottawa to develop blast-resistant window retention anchors to improve Canada’s preparedness and prevention capabilities against blast threats. The project included a significant experimental component consisting of shock tube blast testing of full size windows anchored to different substrates (concrete, steel block masonry and stone masonry). The objectives of the tests were to collect much-needed experimental data on anchor performance, develop new design tools and procedures, and develop a new national design standard on blast-resistant window retention anchors, CSA S852. The experimental data obtained from blast testing of windows was used to validate analysis procedures developed for the purpose of blast-resistant window anchorage design and assessment.