Typhoon-resistant inflatable coal dome begins operation in Shenshan

An inflatable coal storage dome has been put into operation in the Shenshan Special Cooperation Zone (Shenshan), providing fuel storage and supply for Units 3 and 4 of CR Power Shenshan Co.

Covering 37,665 square meters, the dome measures 243 meters in length and nearly 60 meters in height, resembling a giant white pillow when viewed from above. According to a company representative, it has a theoretical coal storage capacity of approximately 280,000 tons.

An aerial view of the inflatable coal storage dome in the Shenshan Special Cooperation Zone. 

Unlike traditional coal yards built with steel or concrete structures, the dome features an air-supported membrane design that requires no internal pillars. Its structural integrity is maintained by a constant pressure differential generated by base fans and is reinforced by 761 hot-dip galvanized steel cables.

The project also introduces a coordinated load-bearing system that combines high-strength PE-coated hot-dip galvanized steel cable nets with PVDF eco-friendly cooling membrane materials. Located near the sea, the facility is designed to withstand a Category 17 typhoon, making it well suited to Shenshan’s coastal conditions and extreme weather risks.

The dome improves dust control compared with conventional coal storage. It features a fully enclosed system equipped with internal mist cannons for dust suppression, hazardous gas monitoring, and smart surveillance. CR Power Shenshan Co. said the design enables “coal storage without seeing it and no dust even on windy days.”

Compared with conventional coal storage facilities, the inflatable dome is reported to cost about one-third as much to build and has significantly lower maintenance requirements. Construction took about six months, versus roughly two years for traditional structures. Its internal space allows large coal-handling equipment to operate without interference, while automated controls reduce the need for manual intervention.

The company said the facility will provide proven technology and greener practices to support coal storage upgrades across China’s power sector.