ABSTRACT
This chapter contains general characteristics and problems of compression structures, together with descriptions and examples of each structure type. Reinforced concrete vaults and domes are studied in connection with shell structures, it covers steel vaults and domes. A steel vault usually consists of steel arch ribs, and beams connecting these ribs. Steel domes can also be formed by half arches. A compression ring connects the arches to each other at the top of the dome. The structure enables the realisation of all these symbolic expectations, as well as being environmentally friendly, while following all structural guidelines for steel domes. Geodesic domes can be studied by looking at: geometry and the structural behaviour of geodesic domes; examples of geodesic domes; and construction methods of geodesic domes. Shell structures are usually constructed from reinforced concrete. Grid shells are usually made out of steel, aluminum or timber. Kimbell Art Museum is a very interesting case when the tectonics of its structure are considered.
