This book offers a well-structured critical review of current design practice for tensioned
membrane structures including a detailed analysis of the experimental data required and
critical issues relating to the lack of a set of design codes and testing procedures. The
technical requirements for biaxial testing equipment are analyzed in detail and aspects that
need to be considered when developing biaxial testing procedures are emphasized. The analysis
is supported by the results of a round-robin exercise comparing biaxial testing machines that
involved four of the main research laboratories in the field. The biaxial testing devices and
procedures presently used in Europe are extensively discussed and information is provided on
the design and implementation of a biaxial testing rig for architectural fabrics at Politecnico
di Milano which represents a benchmark in the field. The significance of the most recent
developments in biaxial testing is also explored.
