8th TensiNet Symposium 2026 & 7th Essener Membranbau Symposium 2026

8th TensiNet Symposium 2026 &
7th Essener Membranbau Symposium 2026 

SHAPING THE PATHWAY TO FUTURE TENSIONED MEMBRANE DESIGN

The symposium is dedicated to the latest developments in tensile architecture and membrane structures. Researchers and practitioners, structural designers and architects, as well as students, are cordially invited to participate in the TensiNet/EMS Symposium 2026.

Tension structures, which are built using lightweight fabrics and cables, provide an elegant alternative to traditional, heavy, rigid buildings. Membrane materials, such as PVC-coated polyester, PTFE-coated glass and ETFE, are valued for their lightness and translucency. Although tensile fabrics generally lack thermal and acoustic insulation, they still offer opportunities for creative and innovative applications.

The recent publication of CEN/TS 19102:2023, 'Design of tensioned membrane structures', aims to boost confidence in the analysis and safety of tensioned membranes, thereby strengthening their role in modern architecture.

Iconic masterpieces have been created using tensile structures by renowned architects such as Frei Otto, Anish Kapoor, Kengo Kuma and Zaha Hadid. In the face of urgent sustainability challenges, the potential for reuse and adaptability in design could elevate textile architecture to new heights. There is much to be explored..

ORGANIZED BY:
University of Duisburg-Essen and Tensinet

VENUE:
University of Duisburg-Essen
Campus Essen
Universitätsstr. 2
45141 Essen
Germany

DATES:
30 September – 2 October 2026

DEADLINES:
20 October 2025 – Submission of abstracts (Text only, 400 Words, 5 Keywords)
31 October 2025 – Review of abstracts and selection of abstracts for full papers
15 February 2026 – Submission of papers
31 March 2026 – Review of papers and acceptance of papers
30 April 2026 – Submission of revised papers

ORGANISATION COMMITTEE:
• on behalf of Universität Duisburg-Essen
Prof. Dr. Natalie Stranghöner
Dr. Jörg Uhlemann
Dominik Runge
Stefanie Schülpen
Felix Surholt
André Westerhoff
• on behalf of Tensinet
Evi Corne
Prof. Dr. Marijke Mollaert
Bernd Stimpfle

SYMPOSIUM WEBPAGE
https://www.uni-due.de/iml/tensinet-ems2026.php#