Announcement & calls
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TensiNet Symposium 2026 & Essener Membranbau Symposium 2026 - call for ABSTRACTS
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 (Germany).
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”.
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TensiNet Symposium 2026 & Essener Membranbau Symposium 2026 - Call for SPONSORING
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.
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€.
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PFAS Restriction Proposal - Comments by the TensiNet Association for the Annex XV restriction report
This response has been provided by the members of the TensiNet Association. The content has been discussed during several online meetings of the Working Group Sustainability & Comfort.
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Execution rules for Fibre -Polymer Composite Structures and Membrane Structures
Call to contribute to the development of the execution rules for Fibre -Polymer Composite Structures and Membrane Structures
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TensiNet SURVEY
As TensiNet approaches its 25th anniversary, it is time to reflect and look ahead! We therefore ask our members to complete this survey and return it by e-mail to info@tensinet.com.
Thank you in advance!
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PCR Guidance-Texts for Building-Related Products and Services - Part B: Requirements on the EPD for structural membranes
The Product Category Rules Part B: Requirements on the EPD for structural membranes (fabrics, coated fabrics and foils) was submitted to IBU (Institut Bauen und Umwelt) for revision on behalf of the TensiNet Association on 15 February 2023 and was published on 5 January 2024.
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Prospect for European Guidance for the Structural design of Tensile Membrane Structures
Tensioned Membrane Structures have unique properties compared to the more conventional built environment. Besides their low self-weight and high flexibility these structures are known to be 'optimally' constructed, as they are only loaded in tension. It results in shapes adapted to the flow of forces and a minimum of material needed to realise the span. Despite a considerable amount of scientific knowledge exists, only few design codes are available. A common standardised approach as well as a comprehensive European design standard is needed in order to provide verification techniques, a common pool of design approaches and to achieve a harmonized safety level.
Within CEN/TC 250/WG 5, CEN/TC 248/WG 4, the TensiNet Association and COST Action TU1303, an international team of researchers, engineers, architects, material producers and manufacturers has been working on this report. The final aim is to develop a Eurocode for the Structural Design of Tensile Membrane Structures, which will help to design and implement these lightweight structures. The report consists of three major parts: 1) general explanations giving scientific and technical background for the design of membrane structures, 2) state-of-the-art overview on existing national and European rules and recommendations on the design of membrane structures, and 3) proposals for European harmonized design rules, which could be part of the future Eurocode for Tensile Membrane Structures.
Authors: STRANGHÖNER N.; UHLEMANN Jörg; BILGINOGLU Faruk; BLETZINGER Kai-Uwe; BÖGNER-BALZ Heidrun; CORNE Evi; GIBSON Nick; GOSLING Peter; HOUTMAN Rogier; LLORENS Josep; MALINOWSKY Marc; MARION Jean-Marc; MOLLAERT Marijke; NIEGER Meike; NOVATI Giorgio; SAHNOUNE Farid; SIEMENS Peter; STIMPFLE Bernd; TANEV Vatyu; THOMAS Jean-Christophe; RAPOSO DE M. DO N. E S. DE SOTTO MAYOR Maria Luisa
Editors: DIMOVA Silvia; MOLLAERT Marijke; PINTO VIEIRA Artur; DENTON Steve
