The Application of ETFE membrane surface Materials in Roofing engineering

1. Large-Span Public Building Roofs

ETFE air-supported cushions are widely used in sports stadiums (e.g., Beijing’s "Water Cube"), convention centers, and airport terminals due to their lightweight nature and large-span capabilities. Their transparency creates expansive, open spaces while reducing structural weight and seismic loads.

2. Translucent Roofs and Curtain Walls

ETFE membranes replace traditional glass curtain walls, offering higher light transmittance and lower energy consumption. For example, the UK’s "Eden Project" greenhouse uses ETFE cushions to provide optimal light for plant growth while regulating indoor temperature and humidity through multilayer designs.

3. Free-Form Curved Structures

ETFE membranes can be thermally molded into complex shapes for architectural innovation. The Moby Dick swimming pool roof in Germany, for instance, features streamlined air cushions that seamlessly blend with the building’s sculptural form.

4. Temporary and Transportable Structures

ETFE cushions’ lightweight and modular design make them ideal for temporary pavilions, emergency shelters, and more. Hangzhou Yintai Plaza’s ETFE canopy, for example, combines avant-garde inflatable technology with striking visual appeal while offering sun and rain protection.

5. Technical and Economic Advantages

Energy Efficiency and Sustainability

• High light transmittance reduces artificial lighting needs.
• Multilayer structures minimize HVAC energy consumption.
• Self-cleaning properties reduce maintenance costs, delivering long-term economic benefits.

Structural Efficiency

• Air cushions eliminate heavy support systems, lowering steel usage and structural weight. For example, Guigang High-Speed Railway Station’s ETFE canopy achieves large-span coverage with minimal material.

Design Flexibility

• ETFE membranes can be printed with patterns or embedded with LED lighting to create dynamic façades. The Adidas Headquarters’ ETFE roof, for instance, uses color-changing lights to enhance brand visibility and commercial appeal.

Case Studies and Data

Beijing "Water Cube"

• 100,000 m² ETFE cushions make it the world’s largest ETFE structure.
• Double-layer cushions with adjustable light transmittance, paired with smart inflation systems, ensure energy efficiency and stability.

UK "Eden Project"

• A 22,000 m² greenhouse composed of multiple ETFE cushions.
• Self-adjusting internal pressure ensures safety under varying wind conditions.

Hangzhou Yintai Plaza

• A 2,585 m² ETFE canopy featuring inflatable structures and LED lighting, transforming it into an urban landmark.