Will Monolithic Dome Structures Become our New Normal?

The Frac Sand Dome storage facility recently constructed near Wembley, Canada, far surpasses 30,000 metric tons of dirt storage in one building. 

Monolithic dome constructions are not new; yet, the technology for creating them has advanced dramatically. Monolithic dome constructions have grown in popularity around the globe--and for a good reason. Dome structures give solutions to some of the world’s most pressing problems, such as affordable housing and buildings that can be constructed quickly. They are eco-friendly and have a high insulation value that affords substantial energy savings. There are many advantages to monolithic dome structures, such as strength, durability, energy-efficient, cost-effective, low-maintenance, wind, water, and fire-resistant.

South Industries, located in Menan, Idaho, has constructed monolithic dome structures throughout the U.S., Canada, China, Indonesia, and Africa. Their talented team of experts encompasses complementary disciplines in engineering and construction. They can construct projects so quickly that it makes their fine-tuned workmanship look deceptively simple. But don’t be fooled. It takes a highly skilled team to accomplish this feat on time--every time. Shown below are photos of a few more of South Industries’ projects.

Monolithic dome structures have been utilized for school additions, churches, conference centers, sports facilities, offices, interim and permanent military housing and tactical development centers, bulk storage facilities, and much more. This building construction technology is taking off all over the world. Dome structures can be constructed faster than traditional construction methods while presenting superior insulation. The form of a monolithic dome structure has the least surface area to volume ratio for heat transference. Once spray foam is applied to the interior of the structure, heat energy is greatly conserved. This translates into tremendous money and energy-saving—exactly what our planet needs now more than ever before in human history.

Dome houses and buildings can resist hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes, wildfires, and even bomb explosions. Domed roofs and buildings are more aerodynamic than square structures allowing the wind flows over and around them. During hurricanes Dennis, Ivan, and Katrina, dome structures were left intact amid the carnage. This is due to the buildings’ semi-circular shape and concrete reinforcement. According to FEMA, monolithic dome constructions are “as near-absolute protection from F-5 tornadoes and category five storms”.

Monolithic Dome Construction Process

Monolithic dome construction has come a long way over the ages. Current construction techniques were developed by brothers David, Barry, and Randy South. Monolithic dome systems require a specialized team of workers. The following is an uncomplicated overview of the development process.

The foundation is constructed, in a circular shape, with reinforced concrete.

A structural steel ring beam is installed and later moved into place.

A fabric or air-form is attached to the foundation and inflated.

Polyurethane foam is sprayed on the inside.

A support frame of rebar is constructed inside.

Concrete is sprayed over the rebar structure.

Monolithic dome structures are the ideal solution for residential, commercial, and industrial uses. They can even be installed under extremely cold conditions. Entire dome communities could be the wave of the future. After all, it’s hard to argue the benefits dome structures offer to solve myriad world issues.

For more information about ArmorThane, visit their website at ArmorThane.com

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