PVC Architectural Membrane is a modern membrane made of a high strength polyester basis covered with a layer of polyvinyl chloride on both sides. It is a fabric that is highly flexible and resistant to chemicals and fire. It is also able to withstand considerable load and changes in temperature from -30 degrees Celsius to +70 Celsius. Its low weight and quick installation time make it an ideal choice for tensile structure applications.
It has very good tensile strength and biaxial stability under load, and it is easily shaped to suit the design of the structure. PVC is also easy to maintain and provides excellent resistance to chemical and mechanical damage. It is available in a wide range of colors and can be printed on both sides, giving it the ability to be used for many different kinds of structures.
Unlike other membranes, PVC can be welded to concrete and other substrates. This can allow for a more seamless structure. In addition, it is less expensive than other membranes. However, it is not suitable for buildings with a significant slope or in areas that experience heavy snowfall or freeze-thaw cycles.
PVC can be coated with photocatalytic materials that work to remove harmful chemicals and airborne odors. This can help to improve indoor air quality and reduce energy costs. The coating is applied through a process called oxidation-reduction, which breaks down dirt and other organic matter into harmless gases and natural substances. The result is a cleaner, healthier atmosphere that reduces the need for maintenance and cleaning.
Another option for PVC is to use a UV-resistant aliphatic urethane coating. This type of coating offers a greater degree of flexibility than regular PVC and has a higher level of UV-resistance. It is also more durable and easier to weld, making it a better option for large-scale projects.
Other alternatives to PVC are ETFE and PTFE. ETFE is a fluoropolymer that doesn’t attract dirt and can be made transparent to let in 5% more light than glass. It has excellent flame resistance and is often used for air-supported pillow and short span frame-supported architecture. However, it has a lower tear strength than woven fabrics and is not suitable for long-span structures that require structural steel.
PTFE, on the other hand, is more of an engineering material. It is a low-smoke, non-flammable and lightweight, with excellent strength, durability, UV protection, and corrosion resistance. Unlike other types of membranes, it can be heat-welded and is an ideal choice for complex, curved structures that need to stay in shape. This includes the roofs of edifices and stadiums, as well as high-rise construction. It is a popular alternative to other membranes because it can be molded into the exact shape of a building or structure and can be welded at any point along its surface. It is available in a wide variety of colors and can be printed with graphics for branding purposes. Moreover, it can be coated with UV-protective TiO2 to create a self-cleaning membrane.