“Composite”

SHELL STRUCTURES can be found as far back as the ancient Roman and Egyptian civilizations. Classic examples of
early shell architecture are the dome of the Pantheon in Rome and the arched ceiling of the Mastaba Tombs in Egypt.
Moving forward to the twentieth century, notable worldwide architects and engineers such as Antoni Gaud, Buckminster
Fuller, and Félix Candela pioneered novel shell construction ideas and technologies.

A shell is a thin structural feature used in buildings that is made up of curved sheets of material that separate the
internal space of the structure from its exterior. The shell pieces are often bent and integrated into a huge structure. It is
built of reinforced concrete and functions as both a structure and a covering. Shell structures are self-supporting and
are used to span a huge area without the use of beams, columns, or walls. Its efficiency is dependent on its curvature
(single or double), which allows for multiple stress routes and provides the best form for transmission of many distinct
load types.

The term shell is commonly used to describe constructions with exceptional strength and stiffness due to their thin form.
The shell structures' best attribute is their continuity and curvature. Because of their structural continuity, the shells can
distribute loads in a variety of orientations.

Shell structures are also known as plate structures. Structures with a very low thickness in comparison to their length
and breadth. These are known as thin shell structures.The major goal of building the shell structure is to lower the
structure's self-weight by making the structure as thin as feasible.

The intricate geometry of shell structures often presents challenges in the structural framing. Creating a formwork that
firmly replicates the complex curves and shapes requires precision and expertise.

Shell structures frequently require intricate structural analysis to provide efficient load distribution and resistance to
external influences. Engineers can precisely model and study the behavior of shell structures by using advanced
structural analysis software and simulation tools.
How are Shell Structures Constructed?

Form Finding
Architects and engineers use advanced analysis methods and instruments to determine the best shape and curvature
of the shell. They optimize the geometry to achieve structural stability and load distribution using graphic statics, finite
element analysis, and physical and computer modeling. This method blends art and science to create visually
appealing and functional forms.

Material Selection
The material used to construct shell structures must be strong, durable, and flexible enough to endure structural
demands and meet their specific shape. Furthermore, construction techniques must assure accurate alignment and
proper structural element integration. To find suitable materials for shell structures, architects, structural engineers, and
material specialists must work together.

Construction Technique
The construction of shell structures require precision, workmanship, expertise, and procedures. Steel reinforcement is
strategically installed within the formwork for reinforced thin concrete shell structures according to design specifications.
The concrete is then poured, compressed, and cured to produce the desired strength. Prefabricated parts are
constructed and linked to steel shells via welding or bolting, ensuring exact alignment.

Collaboration and Quality Control

Building a shell structure involves teamwork between architects, structural engineers, and construction crews.
Throughout the process, regular inspections, quality control processes, and adherence to construction standards are
critical. This collective effort ensures the shell architecture's precision, alignment, and longevity.

FORMS OF CURVATURE

➢ Single Curvature Shell- curved on one linear axis and are a part of a cylinder or cone in the form of barrel
vaults and conoid shells.
➢ Double Curvature Shell- either a part of a sphere, or a hyperboloid of revolution.
➢ Surfaces of Revolution- generated by the revolution of a plane curve, called Meridional Curve, about an axis
called the Axis of Revolution.
○ The meridional curve consists of a line segment in cases of cylindrical and conical.
➢ Surfaces of Translation- generated by a plane curve along another plane curve, while keeping the orientation
of the sliding curve constant.
➢ Generator of the Surface- is the latter curve, on which the original curve slides.
➢ Cylindrical Surface- is the resulting surface in which the generator is a straight line.
➢ Paraboloid of Revolution- if two parabolas are similar, the surface becomes a surface of revolution
➢ Ruled Surfaces- generated by sliding each end of a straight line on their own generating curve. These are not
necessarily at a right angle to the planes containing end curves.
➢ Tension Tie- a tension tie is required around the perimeter at the intersection of the dome and the wall
whenever the shells are supported vertically at their edges.
Developable Surfaces
○ Single curvature surfaces
○ Zero gaussian curvature surfaces
○ Short Barrel Shells; beam action is prominent
○ Long Barrel Shells; arch action is prominent
Non-Developable Surfaces
○ Double curvature surfaces
○ Surfaces with positive and negative gaussian curvature (synclastic and anticlastic surfaces)
○ Sphere or hyperbolic paraboloid
○ Synclastic Shells- have similar curvature in each direction (domes)
○ Anticlastic Shells- each of two curves have the opposite direction to the other (saddle points)
○ Conoids- formed by moving one end of a straight line along a curved path and the other along a
straight path
○ Hyperboloids- formed by rotating a straight line around a vertical axis
○ Hyperbolic Paraboloid- formed by sweeping a convex parabola along a concave parabola or
sweeping a straight line over a straight path at one end and another straight path not parallel to the
first.
○ Structural Behaviors- depending on the shape of the shell relative to the curvature, there will be
different stresses.

CONOID HYPERBOLOID HYPERBOLIC PARABOLOID

TYPES OF SHELL STRUCTURES

1. Geodesic Domes
Geodesic domes are iconic structures with a network of interlocking geometric sections that generate a
spherical or hemispherical shape. These domes offer an outstanding strength-to-weight ratio and the capacity
to enclose large interior regions with minimum materials. These structures are used in a broad range of
settings, including exhibition centers, greenhouses, stadiums, and even residential buildings.

2. Cylindrical Barrel Vaults

Barrel vaults, also known as tunnel vaults, are curved structures composed of a succession of parallel arches
set side by side to form a continuous, elongated, and cylindrical shell shape. These were common in ancient
Roman architecture and are still employed today in applications such as tunnels, cathedrals, and large-span
roofing. Their strength resides in their capacity to properly transfer loads throughout the curved profile,
distributing pressures and minimizing bending moments.

Barrels are deep concrete beams with relatively thin web members that can be created using normal reinforced
concrete design. Furthermore, this form of concrete thin shell is composed of a cylinder, frame or ties at the
 ends containing columns, and side elements which include a cylindrical element; a folding plate element;
columns; or a combination thereof.

3. Shell Roofs
Shell roofs are a wide variety of shell structures meant to
cover massive areas without internal supports. Their
curved, single-surface roofs span enormous spaces,
allowing unobstructed views and open interiors. Shell
roofs can be umbrella roofs, hyperbolic paraboloids, or
folded plate structures. These roofs are typically found at
airports, exhibition halls, stadiums, and cultural
institutions, where their architectural elegance and spatial efficiency are accentuated.

4. Folded Plates Shells

Flat plates are folded or twisted along preset lines to form a sequence of interconnected facets in folded plate
structures. These folded plates merge to produce a load-bearing structural framework. Folded plate structures
are well-known for their visual appeal, geometric complexity, and structural strength. They are used on roofs,
walls, and bridges, where their different forms make a significant architectural statement.

A folded plate may span up to 30m and is only 60mm thick. However, folded plate structures with higher spans
can be built. Furthermore, it is aesthetically beautiful and reduces material and construction costs. However,
 the difficulty in shuttering, requiring substantial physical labor and supervision, the expensive cost, and the
difficulty in raising roofs are all disadvantages of this type of plate.

3 Types of Folded Plates:

❖ Prismatic Folded Plates
➢ It consists of planar thin slabs joining along their longitudinal edges to form a beam-like structure
spanning between supports.

❖ Non-Prismatic Folded Plates

➢ It consists of planar thin slabs joining along their longitudinal edges to form a beam-like structure spanning
between supports.

❖ Faceted Folded Plates

➢ It consists of triangular or polygonal planar thin slabs joining along their edges to form a thin plate structure.
 5. Shell Grid Structures
Shell grid structures combine the principles of shells with grids to form an
interconnected network of beams or arches that create a three-dimensional
grid pattern. These structures strike a balance between the advantages of shell
structures and the regularity of grid systems. They offer adaptability to diverse
building shapes and allow for innovative design possibilities. Shell grid
structures are utilized in exhibition spaces, stadiums, and industrial buildings to
provide a harmonic balance of aesthetics and structural efficiency.

MATERIALS SUITED FOR CONSTRUCTION OF SHELL STRUCTURES

The key concerns when deciding on materials for shell structures are structural integrity and lifespan. Because of its
high strength and durability, Reinforced Cement Concrete (RCC) is the most commonly used material for shell
architecture. Steel is also a popular material for shell roofs since it is lightweight, versatile, and simple to install.
Furthermore, timber and bamboo are robust, long-lasting, and environmentally beneficial materials that are employed
in shell building.

CONSTRUCTION OF R.C.C BARREL VAULT

Because of the utilization of the arch form to reduce stresses and thicknesses in the transverse direction, barrel vaults
are thought to be particularly efficient. Additionally, it spans up to 45.72m, making barrel vaults the most practical shell
structure. Finally, a barrel shell bears load longitudinally as a beam and transversely as an arch. The arch, on the other
hand, is supported by internal shears and hence may be predicted.

2 Types of Barrel Vault

● Long Span Barrel Vaults- vaults which the span is larger than its width.
○ Long vault behave like curved beam having bearing capacity depend upon retention of curved surface
○ Long vault top portion in compression, bottom portion in tension and shear in middle.
○ A long vault may be used to capture the north light in factories and may span up to 90m.
 ● Short Span Barrel Vaults- vaults in which the span is shorter than its width.
○ Short vaults behave like arches primarily and generate thrust at the spring line.
○ To resist thrust: stiffen with ribs, tie back structure with cables and curved surfaces.
○ Short Vaults are also made as a hybrid structure of folded plate.

ADVANTAGES OF SHELL STRUCTURES

1. A light form of construction

2. Faster construction
3. An easy method of fabrication
4. Waste reduction as no requirement of fittings
5. Covers a large area
6. Aesthetic in appearance
7. Energy efficient
 8. Lesser material usage
9. Curved forms are inherently solid pillars that allow for large areas to be spanned without the use of internal
supports, resulting in an open, unobstructed interior.
10. Since concrete is comparatively cheap and readily cast onto compound curves, using it as a building
material eliminates both material and construction costs.
11. The resulting construction can be extremely strong and safe; for example, modern monolithic dome houses
have withstood hurricanes and fires.

DISADVANTAGES OF SHELL STRUCTURES

1. Since concrete is a porous substance, concrete domes sometimes have sealing problems.
2. Rainwater will seep through the roof and spill into the building’s interior if it is not handled.
3. The smooth structure of concrete domes, on the other hand, prevents air from escaping which can
contribute to condensation accumulation on the interior of the shell.
4. Exterior moisture is commonly addressed with shingling or sealants, and condensation may be
addressed with dehumidifiers or ventilation.
5. Since concrete is a porous material, seepage can occur.
6. It is not necessary to put another floor above it due to its geometry.
7. It is essentially the roof covering framework
EXAMPLES OF FAMOUS SHELL STRUCTURES

SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE, AUSTRALIA MONTREAL BIOSPHERE, CANADA

DORTON ARENA, NORTH CAROLINA HEYDAR ALIYEV CENTER, BAKU, AZERBAIJAN

LOTUS TEMPLE (Bahá’í House of Worship)
Architect: Fariborz Sahba (Indian)

Location: New Delhi, India

Address: Lotus Temple Rd Bahapur, Kalkaji, New

Delhi, Delhi 110019, India

Date Built: 1976-1986

Capacity: 2500

Floor Area: 105,000 m2

The religious roots of Indian architecture can be seen clearly and differently than in other areas. The emblematic
symbols seen on buildings and in their decorations, as well as the circumstances in which they have been placed, are
inspired by the religious convictions of the people; convictions that are incorporated and constitute part of the country's
way of life. The shrubs that grow in the corner of a temple courtyard or the color of its walls might tell us which faith the
temple is dedicated to.

Observing Hindu architecture reveals that, despite their

superficial differences, all temples display profound and
sacred symbolism shared by all of India's religions.
These are symbols found in other countries and
religions. The sacred flower of the Indians, the lotus
flower, is one of these symbols.

Fariborz Sahba developed the project for the temple

inspired conceptually by this flower which symbolizes
purity and cleanliness in Hindu tradition.

Several options for steel staging of the structure were considered, with the structural steel frames with bolted joints
being the best option, and taking into account the high level of precision required for fabrication and assembly. All of the
shells' inner surfaces have a uniform bush-hammered surface of exposed concrete with the architectural pattern visible.
This pattern is generated in the inner panels by intersecting vertical and radial planes. The patterns on the outside
leaves and entrances, as well as the inner dome, are generated by the latitudes and longitudes of the spheres.

Its external structure is formed of 27 giant marble petals which envelope the interior space, respecting the circular
alignment of Bahá’í architecture. It is accessed via nine bridges which cross nine ponds surrounding the temple and
provide access to nine doors. The doorways lead to a central area which reaches 40 meters in height, though shows no
visible supports. The temple is surrounded by gardens and its location in the center of the ponds creates the impression
of a giant lotus flower floating on the water. The external covering of white marble ensures the building is visible from a
distance and shines with the rays of the sun, turning violet at sunset.