A polymer of tetrafluoroethylene and ethylene, known also by its acronym ETFE, is a thermoplastic fuorocarbon-based polymer (a fluoropolymer). It was originally designed to have high corrosion resistance and strength over a wide temperature range.
compared to glass, ETFE film is 1% the weight, transmits more light and is also resilient, self-cleaning (due to its nonstick surface) and recyclable. An example of its use is as pneumatic panels covering the outside of large sport complexes, such as football stadium Allianz Arena or the Beijing National Aquatics Centre - the world's largest structure made of ETFE film, well known also as the "Water Cube".
MAIN ADVANTAGES
Wide service temperature range
Low flammability
Excellent mechanical and electrical properties
Very good resistance to chemicals and solvents
Extremely high resistance to outdoor weathering
High light transmission in the visible and UV ranges
Non-stick characteristics
Excellent tearing resistance
Very low permeability
MAIN AREAS OF APPLICATION
Aerospace, automotive, chemical processing, composites, greenhouse coverings, architectural membranes.