Research and application of key technologies for the design and construction of large-span ice shell structures

The ice shell is a spatial thin shell building constructed with ice and snow as the main materials. Ice and snow are easily obtained and fabricated, produce no pollution, and are visually appealing. Therefore, ice shells play an important role in the ice industry and cold regions. In order to promote the innovation of ice shell structures in China, the integration techniques for the design and construction of large-span ice shells were presented. The key techniques were summarized from four aspects: thermal-mechanical coupling analysis, shape control of inflatable formwork, simulation of praying construction and structural monitoring. The application of key techniques was introduced based on the typical engineering cases conducted in recent years. The research results have broadened the appearance modeling and building scale of ice structures, realized the scientific construction and safety assessment of large-span ice shells, and provided theoretical and practical bases for the formulation of design and construction standards for ice shells.