Texoversum is the innovative training and development centre for the textile industry that the University of Reutlingen in Germany created to house its classrooms, laboratories and even a library. It is a fine example of innovation in the educational sector and at the same time by its very architectural conformation is a demonstration of the unconventional use of textile materials in architecture. The façade of the entire building (over 2000 square metres) is created by weaving fibres stabilised by a special plastic resin; the effect recalls the weave of a fabric and thus combines the innovative power of industry with the manufacturing tradition of the city, which has been a centre of the German textile industry for over 160 years.
The façade of the Texoversum is an example of the application of a novel technology capable of revolutionising the construction industry. Its sophisticated structure was designed digitally and is based on carbon fibres woven by robots. Similar to the structure of complex webs existing in nature, e.g. spider webs, bird feathers or palm leaves, the fibre structures are lightweight yet extremely strong and require a minimal amount of material. These elements generate a great saving in resources, an important facilitation of transport and assembly of the components.
In order to develop this facade with such significance for the Texoversum, the University turned to the robotic construction company FibR, founded by Prof. Moritz Dörstelmann. Architect and co-inventor of this innovative technology, Dörstelmann comments: ‘Unlike with conventional steel or concrete structures, we are able to proceed with a minimal use of material, because the robots only use the amount of fibre necessary for the strength of the related structures. As a result, we also save a significant amount of CO2 emissions.”
The necessary strength and resistance of the composites is achieved with Desmocomp®, Covestro’s aliphatic polyurethane resin system, in which the fibres are integrated as in a matrix. Covestro is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of high-quality polymer materials and their components. Through innovative products, processes and methods, the company works with customers all over the world in key sectors such as mobility, construction and furniture, as well as in the electrical and electronics industry, sports, leisure and cosmetics.
“The resin is highly resistant to weathering as well as high-energy UV radiation, thus very suitable for outdoor applications,” explains Pejman Norastehfar, architect and building applications specialist at Covestro architect’s Coatings and Adhesives business. “Other advantages for the construction sector are its excellent chemical and flame resistance.”
In Texoversum, the woven façade fulfils several functions at the same time: in addition to giving the building an unmistakable appearance, it provides protection and shade to the glazing behind.
