Civil Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
2.1.1.2 Polyethylene
Polyethylene fabrics are generally woven from high-density polyethylene slit tape
and coated on both sides. It is generally used for low-budget applications despite
the shorter life span compared to polyester. Knitted fabrics for shading applications
are one of the recent and most promising uses of high-density polyethylene in
architecture. The
fire behaviour and the resistance to UV rays can be improved
through the use of speci
c additives.
2.1.1.3 Fiberglass
Glass
fibres are generally used for permanent heavy duty applications due to the
high modulus of elasticity and the tensile strength, and because of its intrinsic high
resistance to
fire and UV degradation it does not require additional additives.
However, glass
fibres are quite brittle and can crack easily and for this reason the
panels of fabric should be folded and handled with care avoiding repeated
fl
flexing
and low radius of curvature.
2.1.1.4 Expanded PTFE
Architectural fabrics based on Expanded PTFE are relatively new and commonly
used for seasonal and deployable structures due to the high translucency, strength,
fl
flexibility, long life-span, high chemical resistance and very good soiling behaviour.
Due to the high costs this material is generally used for speci
c projects which
require, and highlight, its unique luminosity.
2.1.1.5 Nylon
Nylon
fibres are generally used for projects and products which require lightweight
and stretchable fabrics with relatively low mechanical properties. Thus, they are
commonly used for small temporary and deployable structures both for indoor and
outdoor applications.
2.1.1.6 Aramids
These
fibres are very popular for nautical applications due to the extremely high
modulus of elasticity and breaking strength. They are non-combustible but need to
be protected against UV light. In architecture, due to the relative high price, their use
is generally related to special applications which require their unique mechanical
performance.
