Comparing Heat Loss
Superior Thermal Insulation
Triple-layer ETFE envelopes show a reduction in heat loss by over 40% when compared to double-pane glass.
However, it is uncommon for greenhouses to be built with double-layer glass.
ETFE reduces heat loss by more than 70% when compared against conventional single-layer glass greenhouse structures.
Comparing UV-Vis Transmissivity
Superior Light Transmittance
Triple-layer ETFE envelopes show a roughly equivalent visible light transmittance of 4.2% less than double-pane glass.
ETFE increases UV light by 17%, largely within the UV-B range, assisting pollinator navigation while reducing mould and fungal growth.
Furthermore, ETFE is resistant to UV-degradation and discoloration, which causes early failure of other envelopes.
Dryden, Ontario Snow Load on etfe
Strong Mineral-Based Polymer
Even in strong and heavy Northern snow storms, triple-layer ETFE envelopes can be engineered to hold their own snow load.
In addition, the inflated pillows can automatically adjust their pressure to deflect wind, rain, and snow during storms.
Fire and Chemical Resistance
Self-Extinguishing and Chemical Resistant
On top of being a strong mineral-based polymer, ETFE is self-extinguishing and chemical resistant.
Swinburne University - Hawthorn Campus
Significantly Reduced Carbon Footprint
Single-layer ETFE reduces initial embodied carbon by 27% and another 42% in life cycle energy demands compared to a more traditional glass alternative.
Such a significant reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions makes it the most sustainable and environmentally-friendly greenhouse envelope on the market.
Dryden, Ontario Living Lab ETFE Structure
Reduced Structure Material
The entire ETFE envelope system including aluminum components and steel frame weighs between 10% and 50% of conventional glass-facade structures.
ETFE pillows weigh less than 2% of equivalent glass cladding.
As a result of the significant reduction in load on the structure, less material is required and wider spacing is possible.
Clean Envelope at Living Lab
Virtually Maintenance-Free Envelope
Glass greenhouses require regular cleaning and must be whitewashed, with other materials requiring even more maintenance and frequent replacements.
ETFE on the other hand already delivers light-diffusion properties, and due to being non-stick, sheds grime and is therefore virtually maintenance-free.
ETFE at BURGERS’ ZOO, NETHERLANDS
ETFE Lasts 50 - 100 Years
The oldest known ETFE architectural project is generally recognized as the ETFE-clad roof at the Burgers' Zoo Tropical Rainforest Hall in Arnhem, Netherlands, completed in 1982.
It is more than 40 years old as of 2025, providing one of the earliest and longest-standing proofs of ETFE’s long-term viability as a building cladding material.
The very long life of ETFE envelopes completely changes the financial and operational considerations when building agricultural facilities.
Example Cryogenic Grinding by Pulva
Recyclable Material
ETFE films are fully recyclable.
Waste off-cuts or end-of-life envelopes can be ground down and melted back into virgin material at a rate of 30-50%, with existing technologies.
The range is dependent upon the methods utilized to process the recycled content.