Ethylene-tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE),
FacadeScreen

Ethylene-tetrafluoroethylene, also known as ETFE, offers designers a great solution to alternative options. ETFE facades integrate modern lightness, durability, design, and ecological values.

 The main advantages of ETFE fabric facades are:

• Less support material due to being lightweight
• Flame retardant
• Transparency similar to glass
• Self-cleaning
• High-ranking acoustic properties
• Architecturally dynamic for cost effective design in virtually any shape
• Long service life
• 100% recyclable
• Cost less than traditional glass panels

ETFE foil is a chemically inert material. It resists all chemical agents combining surface tension and provides great resistance to all environmental pollution. The advantage of self-cleaning properties is that they do not weather or require cleaning other than general rainfall.

The excellent light transmission properties (>92%) and the low weight compared to glass
panels (about 1%), allow to create lightweight architecturally dynamic structures and roofing systems. In addition, it is possible to achieve control of both sunlight transmission and effective insulation properties to meet codes when using PTFE in pressurized pillows.

ETFE foil covering also offers excellent acoustic properties. The material does not reflect sound well which allows it to virtually eliminate the echo effect of glass.

The material is approved fire resistant per international building codes. When exposed to flame, the material shrinks and does not spread flames or have any falling or dripping material. UV radiation does not damage the material. This, combined with being inert to chemical, guarantees extreme durability without losing performance in extreme weather conditions. These range from desert climates to extreme cold climates and ranges of -190°C to +150°C.

An ETFE fabric facade offers a flexible and lightweight alternative to traditional glass cladding. Glass is sensitive to slight movements of the building’s primary structure whereas ETFE is not. Whether used as a single-layer membrane tensioned between structural framework or as a pneumatically prestressed air cushion, it allows it to adapt to any deformities or unique designs given to ETFE facades. 

ETFE is also an environmental friendly material and is 100% recyclable at a cost more competitive than glass.