Tensile Effects: Semi-rigid concrete formwork

Abstract

Tensile concrete formwork offers novel spatial affects, new structural configurations and material efficiency. This paper describes ongoing research in developing thin plastic formwork for multi-story, cast-in-place concrete structures. These techniques build upon Cast Thicket, a previous installation which provides a built example of the system (Figure 1). Continuing the success of Cast Thicket, our current research aims to test the system digitally at a larger scale and refine the formwork details. Future work planned includes further mockups to derive structural information from destructive testing and large-scale structural simulation/analysis.