ETFE

Ethylene tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE) is a transparent, lightweight and versatile synthetic fluoropolymer. It was first developed in the 1970s as a viable alternative to traditional building materials such as glass. Due to its unique combination of properties, including excellent chemical resistance, wide working temperature range and recyclability, it holds great promise today for applications in the chemical, electrical/electronic, construction, agricultural and automotive industries.

Alfa Chemistry is a leading global supplier of ETFE. We are committed to providing you with different specifications of high-quality ETFE to meet your scientific or industrial applications. With our extensive product portfolio, you can find the perfect ETFE to drive your research forward.

How to Make ETFE

ETFE is a high molecular weight straight-chain polymer that is partially fluorinated. It is polymerized by ethylene and tetrafluoroethylene monomers. In the polymerization process, the monomers are combined in specific proportions and subjected to a certain amount of heat and pressure. This process usually takes place in the presence of a catalyst or initiator, which facilitates the chemical reaction between the monomers.

* Please note that the copolymerization of ethylene and tetrafluoroethylene must be carried out at low pressure in special vessels.

Performance Characteristics

ETFE has extraordinary performance characteristics that make it an ideal material for a variety of applications. Some of its main features are described below.

• Transparency: ETFE exhibits high light transmission, it is capable of transmitting up to 95% of visible light.
• Lightweight: ETFE is very light (0.35 kg/m2), weighing only a fraction of glass or other similar materials. In addition, it requires less structural steel to support it.
• High Strength: Despite its light weight, ETFE has impressive tensile strength. It can withstand tremendous loads and external forces.
• Chemical Resistance: ETFE is highly resistant to chemicals, including acids, alkalis, and organic solvents. In addition, it is unaffected by most corrosive substances.
• Thermal Stability: ETFE can withstand a wide temperature range, from extreme cold to high heat, without significant degradation or loss of properties.
• Self-cleaning: The ETFE surface has a low surface energy that prevents the adhesion of dust and contaminants. This self-cleaning feature reduces frequent maintenance requirements and helps to extend the life of ETFE.

Applications

ETFE has a wide range of applications in various industries. Its typical applications are as follows:

• Architecture: The first time the public saw ETFE architecture (the Water Cube) may be the 2008 Summer Olympic Games in Beijing, China. The transparency, light weight and high tensile strength of ETFE make it an ideal material for creating bright, visually attractive spaces.
• Construction: ETFE is used in construction because of its durability, chemical resistance and thermal stability. It can be employed in cladding systems, inflatable structures, and as a protective coating for various surfaces.
• Renewable Energy: ETFE is used as an encapsulating material in the construction of photovoltaic modules and solar panels. Its high transparency and resistance to UV radiation contribute to enhanced solar energy conversion efficiency.
• Medical: Because of its biocompatibility and chemical resistance, ETFE is used in drug delivery systems, surgical instruments and as a coating for medical devices.

Our Products

Alfa Chemistry provides customers with ETFE in different material forms. The specific products are as follows:

ETFE Rods & Tubes

ETFE Films

ETFE Granules & Powders