Material for Tensile Membrane Structures

ETFE (ethylene tetrafluoroethylene) is a new generation of light weight fluorine-based plastic, that has a high chemical resistance, and mechanical strength that can last for more than 20 years without becoming brittle or changing in color. The material is formed into cushions filled with air and are used as a skylight for buildings and malls. The material can be printed on to produce the desired thermal and architectural effects.

High chemical and mechanical resistance keep ETFE clean and strong, throughout the entirety of its life span. EFTE is more cost effective than other roofing systems, hence savings are of approximately 40% when compared to conventional transparent roof constructions.

PVC is the single most commonly selected material for tensile membrane structures. PVC is chosen for its excellent strength, its water proof properties, as well as its flexibility, transparency, and durability. It is the most cost-effective and versatile tensile fabric, and meets a large range of both permanent and temporary color and application needs. PVC is classed as a recyclable fabric, and is therefore an increasingly popular choice for green buildings, as an alternative to rigid roofing.

PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene), is a coated, high-performance glass fiber fabric, merged with PTFE emulsion. It is designed to be used for a variety of applications in diverse industries, where high quality, varying weather conditions, fire risk, UV resistance, chemical resistance, and dimensional stability matter.

When designing and building tensioned PTFE membrane structures, architects, designers, and engineers have much more flexibility to experiment with the structure’s form, and ultimately have the opportunity to create much more visually exciting and iconic structures. This is due to PTFE’s highly unique and flexible characteristics.