An Important Revisit: Monolithic’s First Fertilizer Storage Plant
In 1978, this Monolithic Dome, fertilizer blend plant was constructed in Chandler, Oklahoma. It has a diameter of 75 feet and a height of 25 feet and is still in use today.
What a difference! This Monolithic fertilizer storage dome now sparkles and shines and will continue doing so for many, many years.
During the 33 years that followed the dome’s construction, its coating deteriorated. In those early days, Airforms were removed instead of remaining on the shell, and a coating was applied over the foam to protect it. Monolithic soon learned that coatings do not protect the foam as well as an Airform can and does.
In 2011, Monolithic was asked to clean and repair the dome’s surface. Monolithic did a modest cleaning, repaired the bad spots and began applying metal cladding. Beginning with the bottom layer, workers fastened sheets of stainless steel over the dome.
With two layers in place, workers had to be careful as the concrete wainscot was very rough, but the project continued successfully.
Applying flat sheets of stainless onto a round building does create some crinkling, but all things considered the process went well.
To continue the application process, we installed scaffolding that enabled the men to work more efficiently and safely.
The stainless steel cladding begins to make the dome look like it’s diamond plated.
Had it been left uncovered for much longer, the urethane foam would have suffered far more serious problems.
Tourists driving on historic U.S. 66 can readily see that sparkling dome. Future plans include the construction of a large Monolithic Dome store where folks can buy all kinds of supplies.