Project Co-Directors:

Prof. Ted Krauthammer, Center for Infrastructure Protection and Physical Security,

University of Florida, USA (NPD)

Dr. Edgar  Mataradze, Mining Institute,  Tbilisi, Georgia (PPD)

Approval Date:  July 20, 2005.       Effective Date: December, 2005

Completion Date: December 1, 2010

Project web site:  www.mining.org.ge/Projects/SFP980981.htm

The goal of the Project is to design an automatic system to be activated at the appropriate time after an unauthorized blast in an underground structure to ensure a significant reduction of the blast pressure on the shock wave front.   

A new protective system design was proposed. It is composed of:  i) a wireless device for the detection of explosions and activation of a protective system; ii) a new design of a blast energy absorber with a pyrotechnic activation to ensure discharge of water mist to form a barrier in the path of the shock waves. Prototypes of the proposed protective system have been produced. Results of bench testing and of testing in an underground opening confirmed the envisioned potential of the proposed protective system.

Implementation of the Results at the end of the Project:

• a project aimed at protecting several underground sites in Georgia from the explosion has been developed;

• the results of the research have been applied for the elaboration of a new project which aims to increase the reliability and effectiveness of the system for protection from methane explosion in coal mines (2009-2012). The project is sponsored by the National Science Foundation;

• A marketing strategy was developed together with the end-user for the organized commercial manufacturing of the new protective system. A video clip presenting the proposed system was produced;

• The implementation of the project and its results have provided incentives in Georgia for follow up studies relating to blast processes and creation of active protective systems against accidental and unauthorized  explosions, namely:

• The experimental base was modernized and equipped with contemporary research facilities, test benches and other kinds of equipment;

• Research contacts were established with foreign colleagues;

• The results of the research were presented at the 12 International Conference and were published in 14 published articles.

• Within the framework of the project, four young researchers received training at research centres in Europe and the US, two young participants of the project produced  master’s theses;

• A new proposal relating to the increasing the stability of the buildings during unauthorised explosions was prepared and submitted to the SfP Programme Office.