Scaling laws of low-velocity impact response for RC beams: Impact force and reaction force

Predicting the low-velocity impact response of the prototype based on the scaled test results is one of the significant topics in structural design and protection. Thus, reliable similarity laws are required to bridge the dynamic similarity between models and prototypes. In this study, numerical modeling was carried out by considering plastic damage and strain rate effects. Then, the impact responses of four series reinforced concrete beams satisfying traditional similarity laws were analyzed. The largest beam section size reached 600 mm x 1000 mm. The scaling effects on the impact force profiles (comprising three Types) and reaction force profiles of the beam were investigated. Several characteristic points were defined for the available simplified profiles of impact and reaction forces. It is shown that the scaling effects on each characteristic are not consistent. As the theoretical scale factor increases, the characteristics such as the peak impact force, the positive peak of the reaction force, and its plateau satisfy the traditional similarity law, whereas the characteristics such as the impact force duration and the negative peak of the reaction force do not. Therefore, modified dynamic scale factors for the characteristics of impact and reaction force profiles from models to prototypes were proposed. Based on the suggested scaling laws, the simplified profiles of impact and support reaction forces of the prototype can be predicted. It is expected that it will help researchers to conduct experimental studies and optimized designs on structural impact resistance.