What are the different types and classifications of membrane materials used in membrane architecture?

Membrane materials are the "skin" of a building, determining its durability, appearance, and performance.

PTFE Membrane Structure

Materials: Fiberglass base fabric + PTFE coating.

Features: Preferred for permanent buildings. Excellent durability (over 25 years), superior self-cleaning properties, and excellent fire resistance (Class A non-combustible). Initially soft, it whitens and strengthens over time.

Applications: Large stadiums, airports, transportation hubs, and other permanent public buildings.

PVC Membrane Structure

Materials: Polyester fiber base fabric + PVC coating + PVDF/PVF surface layer.

Features: Most commonly used and offers the best cost-performance ratio. Good flexibility, easy to process and install, and available in a variety of colors. Service life is typically 10-15 years.

Applications: From small to medium-sized landscape features to large stadium stands, and the vast majority of air-supported membrane structures.

ETFE Membrane Structure

Materials: Transparent film made of ethylene-tetrafluoroethylene copolymer.

Features: Lightweight and highly transparent (95% light transmittance), durable, and recyclable. Typically used in the form of inflatable air cushions, offering excellent thermal insulation.

Applications: Buildings requiring high levels of natural lighting, such as eco-atriums, swimming pools, and botanical gardens.

Representative Case: Beijing National Aquatics Center, "Water Cube".