The differences between ETFE membrane and PVC membrane materials

ETFE and PVC Membrane Materials exhibit significant differences in multiple aspects, as outlined below:

I. Material Composition & Structure

• ETFE Membrane:
  Made directly from ethylene tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE) resin without a substrate, forming a single-layer polyester film structure.
• PVC Membrane:
  A multi-layer composite material with a polyester fiber substrate coated with polyvinyl chloride (PVC).

II. Physical Properties

ETFE Membrane:

• Exceptional light transmittance (≥95%), dubbed "flexible glass."
• Lightweight (1% the weight of equivalent glass).
• High toughness, tensile strength, and tear resistance, with elongation >400%.
• Strong weather resistance and chemical corrosion resistance, melting temperature up to 200°C.
• Excellent acoustic performance.

PVC Membrane:

• Adjustable light transmittance (4%–15%).
• Moderate flexibility to withstand stretching and impact.
• Good weather resistance and stability across climates.
• Outstanding chemical stability, resistant to acids, alkalis, salts, etc.

III. Fire Resistance

• ETFE Membrane:
  Meets B1 and DIN4102 fire safety standards; no dripping during combustion.
• PVC Membrane:
  Complies with B1 fire rating; no open flames when burning.

IV. Self-Cleaning Properties

• ETFE Membrane:
  Superior self-cleaning capability; minimal dirt adhesion, easily washed by rainwater. Cleaning cycle: ~5 years.
• PVC Membrane:
  Surface coatings (e.g., PVDF/polyvinylidene fluoride) enhance heat resistance and reduce stickiness. Dust is rinsed by rain, but self-cleaning performance lags behind ETFE.

V. Lifespan & Cost

• ETFE Membrane:
  Lifespan exceeds 20 years (up to 50 years for premium products). Higher cost due to market dominance by Japanese and German manufacturers.
• PVC Membrane:
  Lifespan ranges from several years to over a decade, depending on environment and maintenance. Cost-effective with mature production technology.

VI. Applications

• ETFE Membrane:
  Used in large-scale, permanent structures requiring abundant sunlight (e.g., stadiums, exhibition centers).
• PVC Membrane:
  Applied to temporary or mid-to-low-end projects like canopies, stage covers, tents, and landscape installations.