Shell and Folded Plate Structures

The book gives the details of thin shell roofs using concrete.

No structural form perhaps does greater justice to the special attributes of concrete than thin shell construction. They derive strength through form rather than through mass. Of late, there is a great demand for large span roofs for buildings due to various functional requirements like sports stadia, convention centres, theatres, exhibition halls etc.

I am giving an overview of some selected structures with large span concrete roofs.. It includes the design parameters, choice of construction materials, selection of structural system and the construction techniques adopted. The analysis and design of large span concrete roofs is indeed a challenging and interesting job compared to conventional roofs. In addition to a careful consideration of all critical load combination on the structure, analysis of the structural behaviour, during different stages of construction, if different from that of the fully built structure and final design are all essential steps for the successful realization of a large span structure.

In this book I have discussed different types of shell structures. Most of them are either built or under construction and a few of them are yet to be constructed.

Creep is an important aspect in concrete that is time dependent deformation and in shells the creep is to be taken care of.

The development of concept design for shell and spatial structures is an art by itself and it depends on many factors like, type of roof, construction methodology, function, aesthetics etc. Recent availability of advanced computer softwares even for a small design office, facilitates usage of complex forms and shapes.

Thin concrete shells consume the least amount of materials both cement and steel. Specially, important point is minimum consumption of cement. Shells are environmental friendly.

I am quite sure this book will definitely highlight and gives an answer 'WHY BUILD SHELL STRUCTURES"