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Title: Air Formed Concrete Dome Structures

Author(s): J. Zimmerman

Publication: Symposium Paper

Volume: 107

Issue:

Appears on pages(s): 41-58

Keywords: domes (structural forms); energy conservation; shotcrete; forming techniques; formwork (construction); inflatable structures; reinforcing steels; shells (structural forms); Construction

DOI: 10.14359/3346

Date: 6/1/1988

Abstract:
Air-supported forming represents a rapid and cost-effective technique for building long span, thin shell, monolithic concrete structures. This construction method consists of inflating an air form, designed to the required building size and shape, after attachment to a foundation ring. Once inflated, the inside skin of the air form is sprayed with polyurethane foam. Steel reinforcement is fastened to the inside surface of the foam. Concrete is sprayed over the steel reinforcement, again from the inside. Steel is not placed, and concrete is not sprayed where shell openings are required. The air form can be color-coated and textured, or removed for reuse when protective coatings are applied over the exposed foam. This technology is appropriate for free-span architectural applications, bulk storage of granulated solids, and liquids.