Architectural membranes have unique light transmitting properties that enable an open airy feeling of outdoor ambiance indoors, at the same time as forming distinctive and dramatic architectural focal points that provide end users a variety of aesthetic free-form building designs.
Architecturally designed fabric structures are engineered and fabricated to meet worldwide structural, flame retardant, weather-resistant, and natural force requirements, and are increasing used in the design of architecture.
There are several terms used when discussing fabric properties for use on a structure:
- Tensile strength is a basic indicator of relative strength. It is fundamental for architectural fabrics that function primarily in tension.
- Tear Strength is if a fabric ruptures in place, it generally will do so by tearing.
- Adhesion strength is a measure of the strength of the bond between the base material and coating.
- Flame retardancy means the fabric contains a flame-retardant coating and can withstand even a very hot point source. However, it can still burn if a large ignition source is present.
Properties to be factored in when determining a material’s suitability for a structure should take into consideration the following:
- Shading coefficients
- General solar, optical, and thermal performance data
- Acoustical data
- Dimensional stability
- Colorfastness
- Cleanability
- General handling ability things like: including abrasion resistance, foldability, etc.)
The composition of the basecloth gives the fabric its properties such as strength, stability, elongation and tear resistance, while the characteristics of the coating and varnishes applied to the basecloth lead to superior fire resistance, UV resistance and colour fastness.
Commonly used fabrics are:
PVC (Poly Vinyl Chloride) Membrane
PTFE (Poly Tetra Fluoro Ethylene)
ETFE (Ethylene Tetrafluoroethylene)
HDPE (Shadecloth)
For further information contact Fabritecture on info@fabritecture.com