Tensinet symposia

Tensinet Symposia

TensiNet Symposium 2026 & Essener Membranbau Symposium 2026

This combined symposium Shaping the pathway to future tensioned membrane design will be held from 30th September – 2nd October 2026 at the Institute for Metal and Lightweight Structures, Campus Essen. Website link. Email tensinet-ems2026@uni-due.de

Call for abstracts We invite you to participate and submit your abstract by 31st August 2025. The three main topics are:

Design, Modelling and Simulation of Structural Membranes

Structural membranes are lightweight and efficient solutions for architectural applications in roof or façade structures. Their complex load-bearing material behaviour requires advanced design approaches, computational modelling, and simulation techniques to optimise performance and durability. Innovative solutions have to be developed integrating different materials, structural analysis, and digital tools to push the boundaries of contemporary membrane structures.

•              Administrative Regulations in Europe

•              Material Modelling and Testing Procedures

•              Numerical Methods and Formfinding

Materials and Execution

The selection of materials and type of execution are crucial for ensuring the performance, durability, and efficiency of structural systems. Advances in material science, fabrication techniques, and construction processes play a key role in optimising the structural behaviour and sustainability. Innovative materials and manufacturing technologies as well as best practices in execution are needed to enhance the quality and reliability of membrane projects.

•              Construction Methods

•              New Materials

•              Execution Procedures

Sustainability and Building Physics

Sustainable building design integrates energy efficiency, material recycling, and environmental impact reduction to create resilient and responsible structures. Building physics plays a key role in optimizing thermal performance and comfort while ensuring energy efficiency. The use of recyclable materials reduces waste and promotes circular construction practices, while fire safety considerations ensure compliance with regulations and enhance occupant protection. The balance between sustainability, safety, and performance has to be enhanced to advance the future of eco-friendly and resilient buildings.

•              Climate Impact / Shading of Places

•              Life-Cycle Assessment / Recycled Materials

•              Fire safety

If the topics above would not fit, it is possible to select “other”

Call for sponsoring There is the opportunity to sponsor the symposium. There are 4 categories with corresponding benefits: Platinum sponsorship for 4000€; Gold for 3000€; Silver for 2000€ and Copper for 1000€. See link

Brussels - 2003: Designing Tensile Architecture

Milano - 2007: Ephemeral Architecture: Time and Textiles

Sofia - 2010: Tensile Architecture: Connecting Past and Future

Istanbul - 2013: [RE]THINKING Lightweight Structures

Newcastle - 2016: Novel structural skins - Improving sustainability and efficiency through new structural textile materials and designs. E-book proceeding 

Milan - 2019: Softening the Habitats: Sustainable Innovations in Minimal Mass Structures and Lightweight Architectures. E-book proceeding

Nantes – 2023:Membrane architecture: the seventh established building material. Designing reliable and sustainable structures for the urban environment. E-book proceeding

 

You can order the proceedings of the previous symposia. 

 

Announcements & Reports