BIOMAT PAVILION 2021

The pavilion is in the form of a load-bearing shell structure combining a bending-active cross-beamed shell construction under compression to form a unique doubly curved structure that is combined with a stretched membrane roofing under tension. Both systems are connected to double-profile beams that transform the forces from both systems to the three footages connected to a superficial foundation.

The bending-active structure is constructed from a newly developed ‘Bamboo-like’ – pultruded profiles made of natural flax and hemp fibers. The fabricated natural fiber-based biocomposite profiles are freshly produced through pultrusion in the linked LeichtPro research project and is directly applied in this innovative structural application, presenting a sustainability approach in future architecture.

The inner grid profiles are attached in a similar-way to the bamboo constructions, through winded steel threads in a crossing-format, while the membrane is linked to the 3 fottages then stretched along the external beams through an extended rope to the compressed NFRP profiles similar to sailing ships. The structure has a covering span of 10 m and heights varying between 4,5 m (highest point) and 3 m (clear head inner point).

The pavilion is a result of a year of intensive work linked to the research project (LeichtPRO) that started in September 2019 and is financed from FNR (Federal Agency of Renewable Resources)/ BMEL (Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture), FKZ: 22027018. The result is based on several years of research in the field of the application of biobased materials and various concepts for a future-oriented sustainable architecture.

Material development and production took place through DITF, CG-Tec and BAM teams. Zenvision assisted in the technical product design- and market-development phases. Steinhuder assisted in assessing another connection system of the structure. Bieri has produced and sponsored the membrane.

Project Team