Modernizing Monolithic Domes Essay

PAGES
4
WORDS
1246
Cite
Related Topics:

Borrowed elements from works of ancient art have played a crucial role in contemporary structural engineering development. As has been observed even in earlier times, a compilation of diverse artworks from ancient times may be assimilated using advanced technology to create a few of the best artworks across the globe (Snell et.al 198). Domed dwellings constructed by utilizing locally- found material can be traced back to prehistoric times. Such edifices can be seen even in the contemporary age. While the precise time and place of construction of the earliest dome is unknown, the occasional primitive dome can be seen in ancient art history. One will come across references to brick domes in ancient Near Eastern art as well as corbelled stone domes across West Europe and the Middle East. The above examples, utilizing various materials like fabric, wood and mud bricks, suggest a shared source or several independent traditions. In the present age, indigenous communities worldwide construct similar edifices (Snell et.al 198).

There are several reasons underlying my decision to undertake dome construction. However, I first need to separate the myths surrounding domes from the facts. Fortunately, forty- five years of modern dome construction activities can help shed light on the matter (Stiros, 129- 152).

Ancient masonry domes were designed and constructed based on different styles. Domes were predominantly a part of church architecture, in addition to being utilized in diverse structures like hothouses, exhibition halls, shopping arcades, locomotive sheds, parliaments, capitol buildings, libraries, gasometers, and observatories. The domes were supported by triangulated frames, ribs made from reinforced concrete and light papier- mâché (Snell et.al 198).

Well- constructed domes constitute a safe, cheap and energy- conserving home, in terms of construction and maintenance. In spite of dome houses being a relatively old concept, people today still display surprise and curiosity when they hear of it. For instance, consider the igloo –...

...

The durability of igloos may be attributed to their basic construction material – compressed snow blocks – that alternately freeze and melt to give rise to a sturdy, homogeneous edifice. Igloos have the following key fortes – superior insulating property and superior strength (Stiros, 129- 152). Monolithic domes are largely durable on account of their arches’ natural strength and the superior insulation offered by a marginal spherical cross- sectional surface (Snell et.al 198).
Currently, monolithic domes have formed a part of several residential, service and industrial architectural undertakings. Because of their durability, these constructions can function as efficient warehouses for cement, fertilizers, mining, and agricultural produce, among other things. Further, they frequently help limit nuclear power generation plants’ radiation (Snell et.al 198).

Monolithic dome constructions are efficient as well as extremely robust edifices which can endure earthquakes and strong hurricanes (Stiros, 129- 152). Important aspects are flexibility and construction speed. The system may be utilized for constructing homes, churches, bulk storage buildings, and schools, through modifying air form. As a matter of fact, all inflatable shapes may be constructed, (e.g., ellipsoid, low profile, and hemispheres). The edifice can conveniently incorporate windows and doors of any desired shape. Its massive internal mass as well as effective insulation renders monolithic domes one among the most energy- efficient constructions (Snell et.al 198).

The procedures and steps outlined below are required for constructing a glossy, sturdy, modern monolithic dome;

The foremost step in modern monolithic dome construction is construction site preparation. To this end, a reinforced concrete rebar foundation shaped like a ring is first created. The bars that are placed externally help link the structure to its additional reinforcements, thereby creating a monolithic…

Sources Used in Documents:

Works Cited

Snell, Clarke, and Tim Callahan. Building green: a complete how-to guide to alternative building methods: earth plaster, straw bale, cordwood, cob, living roofs. Lark Books, 2005.

Stiros, S. C. (1996). Identification of earthquakes from archaeological data: methodology, criteria and limitations. Archaeoseismology, 7, 129-152.



Cite this Document:

"Modernizing Monolithic Domes" (2018, October 08) Retrieved April 20, 2024, from
https://www.paperdue.com/essay/modernizing-monolithic-domes-essay-2172364

"Modernizing Monolithic Domes" 08 October 2018. Web.20 April. 2024. <
https://www.paperdue.com/essay/modernizing-monolithic-domes-essay-2172364>

"Modernizing Monolithic Domes", 08 October 2018, Accessed.20 April. 2024,
https://www.paperdue.com/essay/modernizing-monolithic-domes-essay-2172364

Related Documents
Hangar Space - A Physical
PAGES 25 WORDS 9159

Regulations and requirements The Federal Aviation Authority -- FAA passed the "Vision100 - Century of Aviation Reauthorization Act," which among other regulations also allowed for the allocation of the AIP funds for the facilities like hangars and fuel farms. This is stated in the law that the secretary can pay the funds "apportioned to the airport sponsor under section 47114 (d) (3) (a) and if the Secretary determines that the sponsor