The disguised face of blast injuries: shock waves

BACKGROUND The increase in terrorist attacks has brought a profound and new knowledge of blast injuries. In order to improve our knowledge regarding the mechanisms of blast injuries, we analyzed the effects of shock waves. METHODS 100 g TNT and 1000 g C4 were detonated and recorded by high-speed camera. Blast wind, shock wave and shrapnel speeds were calculated, and final condition of the target was examined. RESULTS A flash ball appeared first followed by the shock wave. Finally, blast wind occurred and shrapnel was distributed. The macroscopic structure of targets was not affected by the shock wave but was affected by shrapnel and blast wind. Shock waves created a transparent ballistic gel inside the target mat by changing its microscopic structure. The speed of the shock wave was 6482-7194 m/sn and shrapnel speed was 1420-1752 m/sn. CONCLUSION Shock waves especially affect the air-filled organs and cause lung injury, acute respiratory distress syndrome, and intestinal and eardrum perforation. Blast wind destroys targets due to its high speed and high density. The main cause of mortality is shrapnel injury. The high temperature created by the explosion causes thermal injuries. Being informed of the mechanisms of blast injuries will assist in providing better treatment. Additionally, consideration of all mechanisms of blast injuries will facilitate lower mortality and morbidity rates.