Glue, the key to completing Sagrada Familia’s central towers
Poinews.com – Antoni Gaudí envisioned the Sagrada Familia’s central towers as a test of time, not of imagination. His designs were precise, detailing the appearance of the six towers that would rise from the basilica’s foundation. Yet, he couldn’t have anticipated the technological breakthroughs a century later that would validate his vision. The towers, now finished, mark a significant moment in the cathedral’s evolution, coinciding with the centenary of Gaudí’s passing.
The Role of Adhesive
While Gaudí’s architectural genius is celebrated, the true unsung hero of this milestone is an adhesive. Henkel’s Loctite EA 9497 has become essential in uniting stone and steel, creating a seamless integration of materials. This innovation allows each of the 826 prestressed stone panels to function as a single unit, supported by over 2,100 bonded stone elements connected to metal frameworks.
The process demands meticulous attention. Each panel requires roughly 30 kilograms of adhesive, with a total of 24 tonnes applied in liquid form. This material fills every gap and reinforces the joints before undergoing a 24-hour curing phase. The outcome is both visually striking and structurally robust, capable of bearing loads equivalent to 100,000 people per square metre—comparable to the weight of 1,600 African elephants or the pressure exerted by a stadium like Camp Nou.
“This project exemplifies how innovation and teamwork continue to shape architectural progress,” remarks Adrián Orbea, president of Henkel Ibérica.
Environmental and Structural Challenges
The cathedral’s location near the Mediterranean introduces unique challenges. Constant exposure to sea salt increases the risk of corrosion, while underground metro lines cause continuous vibrations. Henkel’s collaboration with the Sagrada Familia spans over a decade, involving rigorous testing and a supply chain adapted to the project’s unconventional funding model. Unlike traditional constructions, this one relies entirely on public donations, with no fixed timeline or budget.
The culmination of these efforts has already rewritten history. At 172.5 metres tall, the Sagrada Familia now holds the title of the world’s tallest religious building, surpassing Germany’s Ulm Minster. This achievement underscores the enduring relevance of Gaudí’s design, made possible by modern materials and sustained partnership with companies like Henkel.
Una publicación compartida de euronews español (@euronewses)
