Editing Tensile structure (section)

{{short description|Structure whose members are only in tension}}
{{more footnotes needed|date=September 2011}}
[[Image:Tensile Steel Lattice Shell of Oval Pavilion by Vladimir Shukhov 1895.jpg|thumb|200px|The world's first tensile [[steel]] [[Thin-shell structure|shell]] by [[Vladimir Shukhov]] (during construction), [[Nizhny Novgorod]], 1895]]
[[Image:Sidney Myer Music Bowl Aerial View.jpg|thumb|200px|The [[Sidney Myer Music Bowl]] in [[Kings Domain, Melbourne]]]]

In [[structural engineering]], a '''tensile structure''' is a [[construction]] of elements carrying only [[tension (physics)|tension]] and no [[compression (physical)|compression]] or [[bending]]. The term ''tensile'' should not be confused with [[tensegrity]], which is a structural form with both tension and compression elements. Tensile structures are the most common type of [[thin-shell structure]]s.

Most tensile structures are supported by some form of compression or bending elements, such as masts (as in [[The O2 (London)|The O<sub>2</sub>]], formerly the [[Millennium Dome]]), compression rings or beams.

A [[Tension fabric building|tensile membrane structure]] is most often used as a [[roof]], as they can economically and attractively span large distances. Tensile membrane structures may also be used as complete buildings, with a few common applications being sports facilities, warehousing and storage buildings, and exhibition venues.