Title: Experiments With Thin-Shell Structural Models

Author(s): J. L. Waling and Longin B. Greszczuk

Publication: Journal Proceedings

Volume: 57

Issue: 10

Appears on pages(s): 413-432

Keywords: none

DOI: 10.14359/8028

Date: 10/1/1960

Abstract:
A new method of forming hyperbolic paraboloid con- crete shell structures is presented. The method, which de-f: ends on the special geometric characteristics of the yperbolic paraboloid, makes use of wire supported Styrofoam with its high strength to weight ratio as a tem- porary shell material to support the permanent shell ma- terial during curing. The Styrofoam thus serves tem- porarily as a structural material in lieu of extensive form- work and remains as insulation and vapor barrier through- out the !ife of the structure. Experiments which led to the proposed construction procedure made use of space models, table sized con- struction models, and a laboratory construction model. Resulrs of the model studies indicate possibilities of success with full scale constructions using the proposed materials and construction procedure. Shells composed of skewed hyperbolic paraboloidal elements to form spherical and barrel type shapes are introduced for further study.