At Technische Universität Dresden a sustainable, transparent roof construction has been developed. At this structure the used materials steel and glass are applied according to their maximum strength (steel for tension, glass for compression). The glass panes transfer large in-plane forces and serve either as primary load bearing components or as protection against the environment.

New developments need to be proven by extensive testing. In this contribution the testing at a plain, 15 m spanning full-scale mock-up and at single panes is described.

The mock-up is a complete modular construction of single pyramids. Each module consists of a glass pane, steel knots, tension rods and steel bars. The glass panes are 1.25 m square and consist of laminated glass.

Different ways to erect such structures were experimentally investigated. The modularisation allows free-cantilevered assembling of single modules or prefabrication on the ground.

Large in-plane forces are transferred by the panes and required buckling investigation. Comprehensive load tests to prove numerical calculations were done. They are basis for the required individual approval of building authorities for such a new structure.

Tests for walk on access and post breakage robustness define the suitability as overhead glazing. The positive test results encourage the authors to pursue their research and are the basis to build these sustainable and material saving roofs.