Structural experiments with ice composite shells

Ice can be a very suitable building material for temporary structures in a freezing environment. When water, mixed with small fibre reinforcements, is sprayed onto an inflatable membrane structurein suitable cold ouddoor conditions, a thin shell is formed which increases thickness layer after layer. After deflating the pneumatic supporting structure, it is possible to create a thin-walled, self-supporting ice composite structure. This paper discusses the activities of university students and staff in two recent international projects on the design and construction of full-scale fibre reinforced ice shell structures in Finland. The first, completed inJanuary 2015, resulted in the world record of highest ice structure (22 m). The second project is completed in February 2016 and consists of a smaller, although geometrically much more complex shell structure.Ice can be a very suitable building material for temporary structures in a freezing environment. When water, mixed with small fibre reinforcements, is sprayed onto an inflatable membrane structurein suitable cold ouddoor conditions, a thin shell is formed which increases thickness layer after layer. After deflating the pneumatic supporting structure, it is possible to create a thin-walled, self-supporting ice composite structure. This paper discusses the activities of university students and staff in two recent international projects on the design and construction of full-scale fibre reinforced ice shell structures in Finland. The first, completed inJanuary 2015, resulted in the world record of highest ice structure (22 m). The second project is completed in February 2016 and consists of a smaller, although geometrically much more complex shell structure.C