Safe City

Safe City

A Resilience Model for Protecting Liquid Storage Tanks Against Explosive Threats

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
Shaahin Farahmandpay 1
Hadi Baghbani 2
Mohammadreza Shekari 3
1 PhD Student in Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering 1, Department Civil Engineering, Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran.
2 Assistant Professor at Shahid Sattari Aeronautical University of Science and Technology, PhD in Strategic Management, specializing in Passive Defense, Tehran, Iran
3 Assistant Professor in the Civil Engineering Department, Shiraz University - Estahban Higher Education Center, Estahban, Iran
10.22034/ispdrc.2024.2040176.1128
Abstract
Introduction
Liquid storage tanks are critical components of the energy supply chain, serving as essential infrastructure for the storage and distribution of liquid fuels, chemicals, and water. However, these tanks are particularly vulnerable to explosive threats, which can lead to catastrophic domino effects and extensive disruptions in the energy supply network. Historical events, such as repeated attacks on oil refineries during wartime, demonstrate the severe impact of such incidents on industrial operations and national security. The protection of these tanks is, therefore, paramount to maintaining energy security and mitigating the risk of extensive damage and supply chain interruptions. This study aims to develop a comprehensive protection framework for liquid storage tanks against explosive threats by employing resilience solutions.

Methodology
The research employs a mixed-methods approach, combining both qualitative and quantitative methodologies. The qualitative component involves a comprehensive review of the literature to identify best practices and existing solutions for protecting liquid storage tanks. Subsequently, the quantitative analysis incorporates expert opinions gathered through a structured Delphi method, enhanced with fuzzy logic to address uncertainties in expert judgments.

Results and discussion
The results of this study, based on both qualitative and quantitative phases, identified six critical patterns for improving the resilience of liquid storage systems and their related supply chains. Experts confirmed the validity and effectiveness of all six patterns, which include employee training and empowerment, increasing storage and distribution capacity, investing in resilient infrastructure, supply chain diversification and distribution center dispersion, using diverse transportation methods, and emergency response programs and protocols. These patterns collectively achieved an average performance score of 3.89, highlighting their practical impact on system resilience. Employee training and capacity enhancement emerged as the most effective strategies, emphasizing the need for a skilled workforce and robust storage capabilities.
In terms of resilience principles, absorption and preparedness were identified as the most critical for ensuring system resilience against explosive threats. These principles were followed by adaptation and recovery, reinforcing the importance of pre-emptive measures to absorb and prepare for potential hazards. The experts also identified detonations at a distance from ground level as the most critical explosion scenario. This situation is particularly hazardous due to the formation of the Mach wavefront, which can amplify the destructive effects of an explosion.
For simulation methods, the Arbitrary Lagrangian-Eulerian (ALE) method was determined to be the most accurate for analyzing large deformations, despite its longer computation times. The Eulerian method was considered a suitable alternative for low strain-rate scenarios. Other methods, such as Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics (SPH) and the Lagrangian method, showed lower effectiveness due to issues with precision and handling severe deformations.
In terms of tank protection solutions, the study emphasized tank dispersion using modern methods to reduce vulnerability by spreading tanks out and increasing logistical resilience. Spacing between tanks to reduce fire radiation and blast effects was also highlighted as a critical measure to prevent chain reactions in storage facilities. Strategic tank location, particularly in protective terrains, enhances resilience to both explosive and natural threats. Physical, security, and safety protection of tanks improves defenses against sabotage and enhances emergency response readiness, while camouflage and concealment reduce the visibility and targeting potential of tanks, especially in vulnerable areas. The use of blast wave-reducing barriers increases the distance between the blast and the tanks, enhancing their resilience. Insulating and cooling systems minimize thermal and radiant effects on surrounding tanks in case of damage.
Regarding structural reinforcement of the tanks, wall stiffeners were identified as key to reinforcing tank walls and enhancing energy absorption to mitigate blast impacts. Concrete protective walls, while highly effective, require careful cost-benefit analysis. Damping blades were found to be cost-effective and efficient for improving tank resilience against explosions and natural disasters. Base isolators, though less effective compared to other solutions, still offer benefits in enhancing tank resilience.
In terms of post-explosion recovery, crisis management protocols were prioritized for ensuring a quick and effective response to maintain supply chain continuity. Employee training and awareness were deemed essential for efficiently managing crises and preventing supply chain disruptions, while fire suppression and environmental protection systems enhance the ability to recover from crises and comply with environmental regulations. These results underscore the importance of pre-emptive measures and strategic infrastructure investments to improve the resilience of liquid storage tanks against explosive threats.

Conclusion
This research provides a scientifically rigorous and practically applicable framework for protecting liquid storage tanks from explosive threats. By integrating resilience principles and utilizing advanced simulation methods, the study offers a robust set of guidelines for engineers and policymakers. The proposed roadmap includes detailed recommendations on site fortification, structural reinforcement, and post-incident response solutions, which collectively contribute to the long-term safety and security of critical infrastructure within the energy supply chain. Implementing these solutions will not only enhance the resilience of storage tanks but also ensure the continuous and secure supply of energy resources in the face of both natural and man-made threats.
The study concludes that a multi-layered protection approach—comprising structural enhancements, strategic site planning, and effective emergency management—offers the most comprehensive protection for liquid storage tanks against explosive threats.

Funding
There is no funding support.

Authors’ Contribution
Authors contributed equally to the conceptualization and writing of the article. All of the authors approved thecontent of the manuscript and agreed on all aspects of the work declaration of competing interest none.

Conflict of Interest
Authors declared no conflict of interest.

Acknowledgments
We are grateful to all the scientific consultants of this paper.
Keywords
Resilience
Liquid Tanks
Explosive Threats
Energy Supply Chain
Fuzzy Delphi
Subjects
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