ETFE is an acronym for Ethylene Tetrafluoroethylene. This transparent polymeric material is utilized in certain modern structures rather than glass and polycarbonate. etfe structures are often mounted within a metal framework, with every unit individually illuminated and actuated. Light sources can also be placed on both sides of the etfe plastic covering.
It absorbs more light, insulates faster, and is 24 to 70% cheaper to build than glass. ETFE is just one-hundredth the weight of glass and possesses qualities that make it much more versatile as a construction material and a substrate for fluid illumination.
ETFE Characteristics
Ethylene Tetrafluoroethylene is frequently referred to be a "miracle" construction material for flexible design. ETFE is (1) strong enough to support 400 times its weight; (2) slender and portable; (3) bendable to three times its size without weakening; (4) repairable by soldering tape fixes over tears; (5) nonstick with an exterior that withstands dirt and birds; and (6) anticipated to last up to 50 years. Furthermore, ETFE does not burn, however, it can dissolve before self-extinguishing.
This polymeric material is commonly utilized in sporting arenas that want healthier, organic grass athletic fields due to its sturdiness and ability to transfer UV sun's rays.
ETFE's disadvantages
ETFE is not a miracle in every way. For one aspect, this is not an "organic" construction material. It is, after all, a polymer. Additionally, it carries more noise than glass and might be overly loud in some situations.
This is often put in layers that must be expanded and require consistent compressed air. The "appearance" of a structure may alter dramatically depending on how the designer planned it if the machinery that produces the pressure malfunction.
ETFE, as a comparatively recent product, is employed in major commercial initiatives. For the time being, dealing with ETFE seems to be too sophisticated for modest housing developments.
ETFE’s lifespan
Because it is impervious to UV radiation, air pollution, and other kinds of environmental deterioration, ETFE foil has an extremely long lifespan.
Although no ETFE constructions have been in operation for more than three decades to provide real knowledge of the foil's process of aging, the technology has been widely analyzed and tested.
These studies determined that there has been no deterioration or loss of strength And there is no indication that the substance was becoming fragile or discoloring over a certain time. As a consequence, the material is expected to have a life expectancy of more than 50 years.
Is ETFE a safe material?
ETFE Foil, as flexible plastic, can withstand very high forces acting on it for a short period. Therefore, it is an appropriate material for usage in areas where there is a risk of detonation. If burglary is a concern, ETFE foil is a benefit since broken cushions will not shatter or fall from the extruded frames.
ETFE has a melting range of around 260°C. ETFE does not facilitate the spread of fires in the case of a disaster. It self-extinguishes but does not produce any blazing drops or fragments. When hot gases or sparks make contact with ETFE coating that is part of the structure's exterior, it will dissolve and reduce in size, enabling hot gases and smoke to be expelled from the structure.
