Development of New Generation Earth Covered Magazine (ECM) Structure Design using Composite Materials

Novel lightweight, energy-absorbing, composite, modular solutions to be used for the next generation of Earth Covered Magazines (ECMs) are proposed.  These solutions will enable construction and maintenance efficiencies while still achieving the same level of protection afforded by existing ECMs.  As part of the proposed Phase I effort, Karagozian & Case, Inc. (K&C) and our collaborators A-P-T Research, Inc. (APT) and Dr. Theodor Krauthammer will investigate the feasibility of incorporating metallic foams, standardized cold-formed steel framing, and mass timber into the next generation ECMs.  A cost-benefit analysis will be conducted in conjunction with the Government at the outset to allocate and apportion these materials into cost effective and efficient candidate composite panel concepts for further Phase I investigation.  Following this analysis, a select number of dynamic material characterization tests will be performed to inform high-fidelity physics-based modeling aimed at assessing the relative performance of candidate concepts to various levels of blast loading and their ultimate limit states.  In the event the Phase I option is exercised, three prototype ECM concepts incorporating candidate composite panels (e.g., Figure 1) will be developed with a focus on panel connections, lateral stability, field installation, facility operations, and moisture infiltration considerations for further investigation during Phase II.