Current Situation and Solution: Design of Research Institute Dome Using Tensioned Canvas Material
The chemical industry research institute required a flexible workspace that could accommodate a wide range of experiments, from heavy to sophisticated, and that could be developed in the future. To meet these stringent technical requirements, a research dome solution using tensile fabric was implemented, providing optimal structural, environmental and cost-effectiveness. The project in Venafro, southern Italy, is a typical example of the successful application of this technology.
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Technical Requirements Analysis & Solution Context
The chemical industry research laboratory has specific technical requirements: the research area needs to provide a controlled environment for both heavy and delicate experiments, together with space for administration, research and technical services. The research program is not fixed, requiring a structure that can be adapted and expanded in the future. The site in Venafro, a large valley with specific natural environmental conditions, required an enclosure solution that was not only functional but also harmonious with the surrounding landscape, while ensuring security and effective temperature regulation.
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Technical Solutions
The dome solution for the research institute in Venafro is designed as a lightweight tent structure, oval in shape, measuring 85 m x 32 m and 15 m high. This structure creates a single volume covered with a tensile fabric material, supported by a symmetrical metal mesh arch system and suspension cables, providing the following technical advantages:
Structure and Form
The dome’s tensile fabric structure is supported by symmetrical metal mesh arches, held in place by six vertical suspension cables. The combination of the tensile membrane and the support system creates a nearly oval shape, ensuring both the integrity of the enclosure and the optimal load-bearing capacity. The interior space is naturally illuminated by the transparency of the membrane, combined with the steel frame and the arched windows at the perimeter, suitable for both heavy and sophisticated research. The dome is centered on an oval reflecting pool, which provides security, regulates the ambient temperature, and enhances the aesthetics through reflection and cooling effects.
Tension Fabric Material
The main membrane is made of PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) coated polyester, a material with high durability and good weather resistance. This material is stretched between the metal domes, ensuring the stability of the structure. At the base, a cable holds the legs to the domes positioned in the pool, creating a solid connection. The junction between the membrane and the metal perimeter half dome is made of flexible transparent PVC material (PVC material reference), fixed to the perimeter of the half dome and to the main suspension cable of the membrane, ensuring watertightness and mechanical strength.
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Results and Performance Evaluation
The use of a tensile fabric dome structure in the Venafro research institute has yielded positive results. The design not only meets the requirements for flexible space for research, but also creates an efficient, temperature-controlled working environment. The enclosed research areas and offices are fully air-conditioned, supported by the natural insulation and climate-regulating properties of the dome. The light, transparent form of the fabric optimizes natural light, reducing the need for artificial lighting, while creating an architecture that blends with the surrounding valley landscape. The reflection of the dome on the swimming pool not only enhances the aesthetics but also contributes to thermal regulation, demonstrating the effective integration of architectural design and the natural environment.
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Contact Technical Consulting
Flexiiform is proud to be one of the leading units in Vietnam providing solutions for designing and constructing tensioned canvas. With the predecessor being the company FasTech and a team of experts with over 10 years of experience in the industry, we are committed to providing solutions for research institute domes and other tensioned fabric projects with superior quality. We are always ready to advise on the right solution according to the requirements for a variety of models and projects at home and abroad.
For expert technical advice or to request a detailed quote for your project, please contact us.
Contact information:
Company: Flexiiform
Phone: +84 8678 68830
Website: https://flexiiform.vn/
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