Issues with management, maintenance and upkeep in ETFE enclosures

Abstract

Ethylene tetra-fluoro-ethylene (ETFE) foil, as a single layer or as multi-layer inflated cushions, has been in used in the building industry for nearly 30 years as a medium to cover and clad both façades and atria. Its longevity has been well publicised and proven with many projects showing little or no signs of degradation. The number of ETFE foil structures has been steadily rising in recent years, and with this the inevitable need for maintenance has also risen. The anticipated life of ETFE foil is now suggested to be as long as 50 years [1], and as with any other building material, regular inspections are necessary to ensure the continued optimal operation of the enclosure.