Prediction of plastic deformation for rectangular plates subjected to underwater explosion based on a new dimensionless number

This study proposes a novel dimensionless number for analyzing dynamic plastic deformation of clamped rectangular plates subjected to underwater explosion loads through the dimensional analysis of fluid-structure coupled plate dynamics. Meanwhile, a correlation between the dimensionless plastic deformation and the proposed number, based on experimental data, is established. What’s more, the relationships connecting deformation with impact factor and aspect ratio are also discussed. Furthermore, damage modes are categorized via the new dimensionless parameter. This work provides a critical framework for evaluating damage effects in plate structures under underwater explosive loading.