Membranes for Tensile Architecture
Membranes for tensile architecture represent one of the most innovative and visually striking solutions in modern architectural design. As a leading manufacturer and supplier, DERFLEX provides high-performance architectural membrane materials designed to meet the demanding requirements of tensile structures around the world. With decades of experience in coated fabrics, DERFLEX tensile architecture membranes combine strength, flexibility, durability, and aesthetic appeal.
What Is Tensile Architecture?
Tensile architecture is a form of construction that uses tensioned membrane materials rather than traditional rigid elements such as steel or concrete alone. The structure’s stability comes from continuous tension applied to the membrane, allowing architects and engineers to create large-span, lightweight, and visually dynamic forms.
Membranes for tensile architecture play a critical role in determining the performance, safety, and lifespan of the entire structure. These membranes must withstand environmental loads such as wind, snow, UV radiation, temperature fluctuations, and chemical exposure, while maintaining excellent mechanical strength and long-term durability.
DERFLEX Architectural Membrane Solutions
DERFLEX specializes in the development and manufacturing of advanced membranes for tensile architecture. Our product range includes PVC coated polyester membranes, PTFE coated fiberglass fabrics, and customized architectural membrane solutions. Each membrane is engineered to deliver superior performance for permanent and semi-permanent tensile structures.
Key Advantages of DERFLEX Membranes
- High tensile strength and tear resistance
- Excellent UV and weather resistance
- Fire retardant performance compliant with international standards
- Long service life with low maintenance requirements
- Flexible design options with various colors, finishes, and translucency levels
Types of Membranes for Tensile Architecture
PVC Coated Polyester Membrane
PVC coated polyester is the most widely used membrane for tensile architecture due to its cost-effectiveness, flexibility, and versatility. DERFLEX PVC membranes are produced using high-tenacity polyester base fabrics coated with premium PVC formulations and surface lacquers.
These membranes are ideal for tensile roofs, canopies, walkways, stadium covers, and shade structures. Surface treatments such as PVDF or acrylic lacquer enhance self-cleaning properties and extend service life.
PTFE Coated Fiberglass Membrane
PTFE membranes are designed for high-end and permanent tensile architectural projects. Featuring fiberglass base fabrics coated with polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), these membranes offer exceptional durability, chemical resistance, and fire performance.
PTFE architectural membranes are commonly used in iconic landmark structures, airports, exhibition halls, and large-span roofing systems.
ETFE Architectural Membrane (Optional Integration)
While DERFLEX primarily focuses on coated fabric membranes, ETFE foil solutions can be integrated into tensile architecture designs for applications requiring high transparency and lightweight enclosure systems.
Technical Specifications
| Property | PVC Membrane | PTFE Membrane |
|---|---|---|
| Base Fabric | High-tenacity polyester | Fiberglass |
| Weight | 650 – 1400 g/m² | 900 – 1500 g/m² |
| Tensile Strength | Up to 5000 N/5cm | Up to 8000 N/5cm |
| Fire Rating | B1 / M2 / NFPA 701 | A2 / Class A |
| Service Life | 15–20 years | 25–30+ years |
Applications of Tensile Architecture Membranes
DERFLEX membranes for tensile architecture are widely used across a variety of architectural and structural applications:
- Tensile roof structures
- Stadium and arena coverings
- Airport terminals and transportation hubs
- Commercial building facades
- Outdoor canopies and sun shading systems
- Exhibition halls and cultural landmarks
Design Flexibility and Aesthetic Value
One of the greatest advantages of membranes for tensile architecture is their design freedom. DERFLEX architectural membranes are available in a wide range of colors, surface finishes, translucency levels, and custom specifications to support creative architectural expression.
Translucent membrane options allow natural daylight penetration, reducing energy consumption while creating bright and comfortable interior spaces.
Manufacturing Expertise & Quality Control
DERFLEX operates advanced coating and finishing production lines, ensuring consistent quality and performance for every roll of architectural membrane. Our quality control system covers raw material selection, coating thickness control, tensile testing, fire testing, and aging performance evaluation.
Each membrane for tensile architecture is manufactured in compliance with international standards and project-specific technical requirements.
Certifications and Standards
- ISO 9001 Quality Management System
- EN 13501 Fire Classification
- NFPA 701 Flame Resistance
- DIN and ASTM Mechanical Standards
Why Choose DERFLEX for Tensile Architecture Membranes?
As a trusted manufacturer with a global customer base, DERFLEX provides more than just membrane materials. We offer technical expertise, reliable supply, and long-term partnership support for tensile architecture projects.
- Over 20 years of coated fabric manufacturing experience
- Custom membrane solutions for complex architectural designs
- Stable quality and competitive pricing
- Worldwide export and project support
Installation & Maintenance Considerations
Proper installation is essential for maximizing the performance and lifespan of tensile architecture membranes. DERFLEX recommends professional fabrication and installation partners to ensure correct tensioning, welding, and detailing.
Routine inspection and cleaning help maintain appearance and structural performance over time.
Global Projects & Applications
DERFLEX membranes for tensile architecture have been supplied to projects across Europe, North America, Asia, the Middle East, and South America. Our materials are trusted in both iconic landmark structures and functional commercial installations.
Contact DERFLEX
If you are looking for reliable, high-quality membranes for tensile architecture, DERFLEX is your trusted partner. For technical consultation, product samples, or customized solutions, please contact us through our official website:
Company: DERFLEX
Website: https://www.derflex.com
DERFLEX – Professional Manufacturer of Membranes for Tensile Architecture.




