Ever felt lost reading about “pneumatic cushions” or “fritting patterns”? Let’s clear the air—literally.
At Architen Landrell, we’ve been designing, engineering, and installing ETFE structures for over two decades. From iconic stadiums to energy-efficient atriums, we’ve helped bring some of the most ambitious tensile architecture projects to life. But one thing we’ve learned? Even the most innovative materials can become intimidating when buried under layers of technical speak.
So, let’s strip it back. Here’s a no-nonsense guide to the key terms used in ETFE construction—explained in plain English.
The jargon:
“ETFE is a fluorine-based plastic polymer used in large-span tensile structures.”
In plain English:
ETFE is a high-strength, lightweight plastic that’s clearer than glass, tougher than acrylic, and ideal for facades and roofs.
The jargon:
“The cladding system is comprised of multi-layer ETFE pneumatic cushions inflated to at low pressure t withstand differential pressure loads”
In plain English:
Big plastic pillows, filled with low-pressure air. They’re what give ETFE roofs their puffy, cloud-like look—and insulating performance. They’re also engineered to survive high wind pressures —these structures are stronger than they look.
The jargon:
“A range of fritting patterns are applied to control solar gain and glare.”
In plain English:
Tiny dots or patterns printed on the ETFE to control how much light (and heat) gets through. Like architectural sunglasses.
The jargon:
“ETFE foil is tensioned over a cable net or lightweight steel substructure.”
In plain English:
ETFE needs a skeleton. That could be a web of cables or a frame of steel to hold its shape.
The jargon:
“ETFE transmits up to 95% of UV light, enabling photosynthetic activity.”
In plain English:
Great for growing plants indoors. ETFE lets in nearly all sunlight, but optional coatings can fine-tune that.
The jargon:
“ETFE has a Class 1 fire rating and self-extinguishes without producing molten drips.”
In plain English:
ETFE isn’t a fire risk. It melts, but doesn’t spread flames or drip burning bits—an important safety feature.
The jargon:
“The U-value of a triple-layer ETFE system is approximately 1.96 W/m²K.”
In plain English:
Not as insulating as double-glazed glass, but good enough for most climates—especially when multiple layers are used.
The jargon:
“ETFE exhibits excellent resistance to atmospheric pollution and degradation.”
In plain English:
It’s self-cleaning (rain usually does the trick), doesn’t yellow, and lasts over 30 years with little maintenance.
When we cut through the jargon, ETFE becomes more approachable. It’s not just a trendy material for headline-grabbing architecture—it’s a practical, efficient, and versatile building solution.
Whether you’re pitching to a client or exploring it for a project, understanding the language of ETFE is the first step in making it work for you.
👋 Have you worked with ETFE before? Curious to use it in a future project? Let’s connect—Architen Landrell is always happy to share insights and help others push the boundaries of what’s possible in tensile architecture.
Other posts by Amy Richardson
