The central aspect of this Master Thesis is which types of joints, except from sewing and welding, are possible with a 100% PTFE membrane. In my Master Thesis I want to study the possibilities whether it is achievable to glue 100% PTFE Membrane together. To join membranes together is essential for each type of lightweight structure which is built with any kind of membrane. Currently 100% PTFE membranes are mainly sewn and sometimes they are welded. The difficulty of the sewing is that after this method there are a lot of small holes in the membrane. Therefore a second step is necessary to make sure to have a membrane which is waterproof again. The welding process is very complex and it is necessary to use an additional layer to be able to weld the membranes together. Because of the well-known fact that the joint is only between the layer and the coating of the membrane, the strength of the welded seam is very limited. I am convinced that I am able to prove that apart from sewing and welding gluing is one of the best alternatives to join 100% PTFE membranes together. I want to verify that in several tests. The tests are done at room temperature and of course also with temperature. With several seam widths I want to make sure to define the recommended seam width for this technique.
