The new structural concept Tensairity: Basic principles

Abstract

Light weight structures are a challenge for the structural engineer and an important step to- wards a sustainable architecture. We present the new light weight structural concept Tensairity. In Tensairity, compression and tension are physically separated. Low pressure compressed air is used for pretensioning the tension element and for stabilizing the compression element against buckling. It can be shown that no buck- ling problem arises. This allows to use the material both for tension and compression to its yield limit. As a result, Tensairity girders can be by factors lighter than conventional beams. The technology is ideally suited for wide span structures and for deployable applications as temporary bridges, scaffolds or large tents. Proto- types, finite element analysis as well as experimental studies have proven the concept. In this paper, the basic principles of Tensairity are presented.