Abstract
This paper presents design optimization of concrete slab subjected to blast loading of nuclear
explosion. It focuses on sizing optimization problem of a concrete slab having elastic foundation
and fixed ends. In the formulation of the optimization problem, the objective function is to
minimize the maximum existing displacement. The design variables of the optimization problem
are the thicknesses of the concrete slab elements. The constraints are the concrete slab are the
mass, derivative of the thicknesses and plastic strain. A MATLAB code has been developed to
obtain the pressure time history. This code is linked to the finite element software ANSYS to
determine the displacement time history , strains, stresses and best cross section shape of the
concrete slab.