Explosion Dynamics
Explosionsdynamik

VBRP05, 7.5 credits, A (Second Cycle)

Valid for: 2026/27
Faculty: Faculty of Engineering LTH
Decided by: PLED BI/RH
Date of Decision: 2026-04-09

General Information

Main field: Technology Depth of study relative to the degree requirements: Second cycle, in-depth level of the course cannot be classified
Elective for: BR4-bsa, BR4-oh
Language of instruction: The course will be given in Swedish

Aim

The course aims to give the student an understanding of the physics behind explosions in gases, dusts and solid explosives. The focus is on the basic mechanisms behind deflagrations and detonations, as well as their impact on the environment. The student will develop the ability to analyze explosion processes, assess consequences for people and buildings, and propose and justify relevant risk reduction measures.

Learning outcomes

Knowledge and understanding
For a passing grade the student must

• Explain the physical principles behind deflagration and detonation, and describe the transition between them.
• Explain the properties of different types of substances that may be involved in explosions.
• Describe how the design of buildings and other objects affects blast wave propagation and structural damage.
• Explain methods to reduce the likelihood of explosions and to reduce the consequences of explosions.

Competences and skills
For a passing grade the student must

• Apply basic theories and models to analyze explosion processes.
• Assess the consequences of explosions in different environments.
• Calculate pressure increase during deflagration in both isolated and pressure-relieved structures as well as from detonations and use this to design pressure relief.
• Calculate ventilation requirements to reduce the extent of the flammable envelope for both gases and liquids.
• Assess the extent of damage to people and buildings as a result of explosions.

Judgement and approach
For a passing grade the student must

• Assess risks associated with explosions in different contexts
• Reflect on ethical and societal aspects linked to explosions.

Contents

The course focuses on explosion risks associated with flammable gases, dust and solid explosives and how these can be managed through, for example, ventilation, pressure relief and inerting. The course also includes an assessment of the potential impact on people and buildings as a result of an explosion and the regulations and application documents that govern the design, such as ATEX and various standards. The course consists of lectures, exercises, laboratory work and some small project assignments where specific issues are to be investigated.

Examination details

Grading scale: TH - (U, 3, 4, 5) - (Fail, Three, Four, Five)
Assessment:

The examination consists of a written exam and the project assignments and laboratory exercises that are included in the course. The exam consists of both theory questions and problem solving. The final grade consists of the result of the written exam.

The examiner, in consultation with Disability Support Services, may deviate from the regular form of examination in order to provide a permanently disabled student with a form of examination equivalent to that of a student without a disability.

Modules
Code: 0126. Name: Assignments.
Credits: 3.0. Grading scale: UG - (U, G). Assessment: Approved project assignments and labs The module includes: During the course, a number of project assignments and labs must be completed. The project assignments are presented in writing and orally.
Code: 0226. Name: Written Exam.
Credits: 4.5. Grading scale: TH - (U, 3, 4, 5). Assessment: Approved written exam The module includes: The student must demonstrate that they meet the requirements for understanding and problem-solving skills based on material from lectures, exercises, laboratory work and project assignments.

Admission

Assumed prior knowledge: Basic course in fluid mechanics, thermodynamics and structural engineering
The number of participants is limited to: No

Reading list

• Rangwala, A.S. & Zalosh, R.G: Explosion Dynamics - Fundamentals and Practical Applications. Weinheinm : Wiley-VCH Verlag, 2023, ISBN: 9783527833375. Avaliable as e-book via LUB.
  https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/book/10.1002/9783527844623
• Additional literature will be made available on Canvas.

Contact

Course coordinator: Marcus Runefors, marcus.runefors@brand.lth.se
Course administrator: Linnéa Ekman, linnea.ekman@ebd.lth.se
Examinator: Marcus Runefors, marcus.runefors@brand.lth.se
Examinator: Patrick van Hees, patrick.van_hees@byggtek.lth.se

Further information

Group assignments and seminars require active participation. Each group member must individually be able to account for the content of the assignment.

Generative AI may be used in a similar way as other tools used for gathering information. Using the resulting text, figure, code or similar created by a GAI tool is treated as deceptive and is treated as cheating. The use of GAI tools shall be stated in written material for examination. Recommendation on the use of GAI tools is presented on the course area on Canvas.