International Journal of Urban Management and Energy Sustainability

International Journal of Urban Management and Energy Sustainability

Analysis of the performance of non-structural building components against blast waves with emphasis on the behavior of glass and window frames in improving design

Document Type : Original Article

Author
B.Sc., Department of Civil Engineering, Islamic Azad University, South Tehran Branch, Tehran, Iran
Abstract
The threat of blast waves and their effects on modern buildings is recognized as one of the critical issues in the field of architecture and engineering, to the extent that the possibility of human casualties from these explosions is felt to be excessive. This study analyzes the performance of non-structural building components against blast waves and focuses on the behavior of glass and window frames as key factors in facade protection. The aim of this research is to explain the framework of the main indicators involved in the behavior of glass materials and window frames when a blast wave occurs and impacts the building facade. The present article is of an analytical type that has an applied and developmental purpose. First, by reviewing the basics, key topics were formulated in the form of concepts such as energy distribution, stress concentration and failure mechanisms in the facade; in the next step, inferential analyses and the principles obtained from the behavior in multilayered glasses, frame connections and surface coatings are collected and combined in a calibrated manner with a hypothetical structure to present a conceptual framework. The research findings indicate that the main indicators involved in the subject should be examined in the form of facade safety. As a result, a design decision-making framework that combines material selection, safe detailing, and implementation recommendations for improving facade sustainability has been presented, which demonstrates the high importance of policymaking and establishing rules for careful supervision of the implementation of glass facades and window frames by creating a management structure in organizations such as the engineering system.

Graphical Abstract

Analysis of the performance of non-structural building components against blast waves with emphasis on the behavior of glass and window frames in improving design

Highlights

  • This study analyzes the performance of non-structural building components against blast waves, with a particular focus on glass and window frames as key factors in facade protection.
  • It adopts an analytical, applied, and developmental approach that combines theoretical, experimental, and modeling explanations to establish a conceptual framework.
  • The research identifies the main indicators for facade safety, including stress concentration, cracking, energy and particle distribution, connection strength, usability, environmental and economic sustainability, user acceptance, and measurement uncertainties.
  • Through concept formulation, inferential analysis, and calibration with a hypothetical structure, the study integrates behavior in multilayered glasses, frame connections, and surface coatings to support its conclusions

Keywords

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  • Receive Date 28 June 2025
  • Revise Date 29 September 2025
  • Accept Date 01 October 2025