What term refers to the construction of roofs using a membrane held in place on steel cables?

The term that refers to the construction of roofs using a membrane held in place on steel cables is called a tensile structure. This type of construction relies on tension rather than compression or bending, allowing for lightweight and efficient designs. Tensile structures are often made from flexible materials such as fabric or membrane, which can achieve large spans without the need for extensive support systems. The steel cables play a critical role in maintaining the shape and stability of the structure by distributing dynamic loads effectively.

In contrast, thin-shell construction involves using thin, curved surfaces to create strong structures, but it does not specifically employ a membrane or steel cables. Pre-stressed concrete refers to a method used in concrete structures to improve their performance under loads, and it is not inherently related to the use of membranes or tensile systems. Post-tensioning is a specific technique for reinforcing concrete that involves tensioning high-strength steel tendons after the concrete has cured, which is distinct from the principles of tensile structures. Therefore, the correct term to describe the construction method with a membrane on steel cables is indeed tensile structure.