The shelter’s primary material is PTFE membrane, a high-performance textile that is durable, lightweight, and translucent. PTFE offers greater flexibility and adaptability than traditional architectural materials, with the ability to be custom woven for specific needs. To ensure structural stability, the PTFE membrane is combined with an aluminium and steel frame in each panel.
Prototype II is part of the ongoing development of the ‘Cirrus’ system, a multi-functional membrane structure co-developed by MDT-tex. This system is designed to function as a façade, second skin, or shelter structure. The PTFE fabric used in the prototype is highly resistant to chemicals, weather, UV radiation, and extreme temperatures, while also being non-flammable and self-cleaning. These properties, originally utilised in aerospace engineering, make PTFE an ideal material for both space and architectural applications.