Test methods and characterization of membranes

Membrane materials are flexible and only stabilized by tension. Therefore the most important mechanical parameters for construction are tensile strength and elastic properties. It is essential to distinguish between stiffness and strength (with and without deterioration). 

A high quality standard requires test certificates such as for tensile strength and coating adhesion, chemical properties such as hydrolysis resistance and optical properties such as UV, VIS and IR transmission. Furthermore, certificates for all kinds of resistance such as fire protection and ageing stability are also required. 

Multilayered membrane constructions have advantages in functionality, but they must be certified in their physical functionality in the complete construction system. We note that there is a particular problem concerning in-layered condensate. 

Further material characteristics for declaration and control of sustainability of the membranes are required. They are based on analyses of maintenance, repair and recycling. 

The following sections provide the basic knowledge to obtain authorization for membranes for building with textile materials. This takes account of the EU Building Products Guidelines, which are also valid in Germany in the form of the law dated 28 April 1998, updated on 15 December 2001. 

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