Woodhead Publishing Membranes for Structures: Applications (Woodhead Publishing Series in Civil and Structural Engineering)

A growing use of membranes for construction purposes has recently been encouraged by their environmentally friendly characteristics. To offer a timely and extensive, research-grounded compendium on structures made with fabrics and foils, the most relevant facets of the state of the art are covered in two sister titles. Membranes for Structures ― Applications is steeped in fascinating, functional examples: in fact, a selection of detailed case studies is presented in Part One, preceded by the description of two relevant historical antecedents, which are the circus tent and the “envelat”. The particular case of the successful spoked wheel structural system for the construction of large stadiums is the subject of Part Two, including descriptions of four significant case studies. Two growing fields of application are the focus of Part Three, which is dedicated to façades that give buildings a unique appearance, and Part Five, which addresses replacements, renovations, and refurbishments―activities that are frequently encountered in today’s construction industry. And Part Four presents the latest application developments in different countries across the globe, with achievements in China, Latin and North America, Japan, and Europe being highlighted. The well-amalgamated contributions, authored by international experts, produce a comprehensive reference to keep students and researchers as well as industry professionals and various other stakeholders abreast with the latest advancements. Incorporates recent developments that are poorly documented in other literature available Describes functional, structural, and decorative applications of membranes in buildings and includes various relevant case studies from around the world Published alongside its sister title, Membranes for Structures ― Fundamentals (ISBN: 9780443224072)