Inflatable PVC formwork is being installed at Tilbury Docks in Essex to create a huge new cement silo for materials giant Aggregate Industries.

US contractor Dome Technology inflated the airform and will now commence fitting rebar mesh to the interior surface of the innovative dome structure.

It will soon place nearly 4,500m3 of sprayed and wet mix concrete to the internal surface to form the 45m tall, 32m diameter dome silo which when finished will store 30,000 tonnes of cement.

Once operational in 2026, Aggregate Industries will be able to serve its customers 24/7 with conventional, low-carbon cement from 5 loading heads.

PVC airform is bolted to a ground ring beam and inflated, forming the exterior dome shape; the fabric will remain in place indefinitely as it becomes the outer waterproofing membrane.

Project Manager, Tim Fry, said: “This new facility is a strategic investment in both the infrastructure of Tilbury and in Aggregate Industries’ mission to lead in supplying low-carbon, sustainable construction solutions.

“The dome silo maximises storage capacity with minimum footprint, and reflects Aggregate Industries’ proactive commitment to embrace new innovative technologies.”