This book reviews the development of research into the explosive loading of structures, mainly since the beginning of the twentieth century. Major contributions in the fields of measurement, analysis and prediction are discussed. Dynamic loading from conventional high explosives is examined, as well as the effects of liquid propellant, dust, gas, vapour, and fuel/air explosions. Subjects include blast in tunnels, underground and underwater explosions, pressure measurement and blast stimulation. Explosive effects on civil buildings, civil bridges, aircraft and ships are summarized, including the estimation of residual strength. The concluding passages refer to structural safety and reliability.

'a very interesting text on a complex and somewhat sensitive subject...It is a very commendable book for practicing engineers and researchers involved in explosive loading problems or likely to be so in the future.' - Strain

'...will appeal to those who wish to have a thorough background to the subject and who, having absorbed it, will be able to speak with greater authority in the future.' - Structural Engineer

P.S. Bulson was Visiting professor University of Southampton, England, since 1983. Convenor project team on Eurocode for Structural Aluminum, Brussels, 1994-1997.