Establishing Cavitation as a Damage Mechanism for Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) from an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) Blast

The leading risk facing our soldiers in Iraq is an improvised explosive device (IED). IED attacks on vehicles create an extreme shock environment that has been linked to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). While the damage mechanisms that cause TBI remain elusive, several researchers have speculated that the damage mechanisms of stress and strain associated with non-war-related TBI may not sufficiently address IED induced TBI. It may, in fact, involve a third damage mechanism: cavitation. The objective of this research is to develop the mathematical tools to predict these damage mechanisms. Advanced Technology and Research Corporation will collaborate with Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory in developing a finite-element model of the head/brain. The dynamic response of the head/brain model to IED events will be computed using the DYSMAS hydrocode. Stress and strain contours predicted over the duration of the response will be examined for potential damage mechanisms including cavitation. Positively identifying the damage mechanism for TBI will directly impact the health care needs of current and future military personnel. By understanding the cause(s) of TBI, engineers and medical researchers can continue their collaboration to develop mitigation devices and cut medical costs by reducing the number and severity of TBI casualties.