ETFE (Ethylene Tetrafluoroethylene) is a thermoplastic polymer that has established itself in contemporary architecture thanks to its properties. Its extreme lightness is combined with remarkable transparency—allowing natural light to pass through without compromising structural strength—and high resistance to ultraviolet radiation, extreme temperatures, and corrosion.
ETFE’s versatility has led to its application in buildings requiring advanced technical solutions, such as stadiums, greenhouses, shopping malls, and more. A prime example is the Beijing Aquatics Centre, known as the “Water Cube.” Its translucent bubble façade illustrates the material’s ability to take on complex, organic shapes in bold architectural designs.
ETFE has also demonstrated its potential in futuristic settings, such as the Tron Lightcycle Power Run attraction, inaugurated in 2023 at Walt Disney World. The ETFE roof acts here as a screen onto which light effects are projected with integrated LEDs, in a technological theming that simulates a digitalized environment. In this project, the material not only serves a structural function but is also key to the immersive experience.
Furthermore, its transparency contributes to the thermal control of the space and improves energy efficiency. Furthermore, its lightness significantly reduces the weight of roof and façade structures, resulting in lower construction and transportation costs compared to heavier alternatives such as glass.
By Tianshu Liu, Senior Architect in the Architecture Department at Amusement Logic
