Artificial aging test method for the assessment of changes in properties of architectural membranes and membrane connections

Abstract

In order to determine changes in the functional properties of architectural membranes due to weathering and forecast their durability, it is very essential that the accelerated aging test simulates conditions that are maximally close to the natural operating conditions of these materials in tensile structures. This paper introduces the development of an artificial weathering test for the investigation of changes in the properties of architectural membranes and connections from this material by incorporating climatic factors characteristic of the continental climate zone of mid-latitude in the aging model. The duration, intensity, and sequence of cyclic impact under which artificial aging has to be performed were based on the analysis of the environmental conditions of this zone. 1000 h impact consisting of 520 h of radiation with UVA-340 lamps and 480 h of cyclic immersion in acidic pH water, freezing (−18 °C) and heating (60 °C) are the main stages of the aging model. The developed aging model was experimentally verified by testing the PES/PVC coated material that is used in tensioned membrane structures and its connections of three types (overlap, pocket and laced). The results indicate that the model is useful both for determining changes in the properties of membranes and connections and may serve as a potential tool for forecasting the aging of architectural membranes.