PVDF coated PVC Membrane Tensile is a New Attraction to the Architects
To retain the original appearance and keep intact its brightness surface coatings are used by the metal- like industrial fabrics. To make the coatings elastic synthetic resins are used which include modifiers. These modifiers accumulate dirt to the surface. As a result of this fact the membrane absorbing the dirt cannot maintain its aesthetic appearance and brightness and moreover allows fungal growth on its surface. To protect the fabric metal from this kind of problem PVDF or polyvinylidene fluoride is applied as surface treatment or top finish which has the capacity to protect the fabric material by its own properties and characteristics.
Relation of PVC with PVDF
PVC or polyvinyl Chloride fabric membrane is a very popular elastic membrane that is literally maintenance free. Generally it is found in white color but according to the demand of different proje- cts and requirements of the clients PVC can be available in various attractive colors that suit the projects. PVC has various distinctive features that have made it so demanding in the architectural world. Among these its heat radiation property, fire radiation, translucency, extreme strength, durability, recyclability, withstanding capacity of any type of extreme climatic condition and thermoplastic nature have made it increasingly popular and indispensible in the architectural fabric structures. Though it provides a self cleaning property that lasts up to 12 or 15 years but the efficacy of this property always depends upon the geographical location. All of the locations do not allow it to function properly. In this case, if PVDF or polyvinylidene fluoride is applied to PVC or polyvinyl Chloride as surface treatment then this popular metal can be protected; otherwise the dirt accumulation in the surface of the PVC damages its aesthetic appearance as well as its cleanliness.
Role of PVDF
PVDF is a special surface painting that protects the coated metal from pest infestation and fungus. It is Ultra Violet resistant; so this surface coating can save the fabric structure of PVC from being fade. It also provides sufficient water. Though it is light weight yet it offers high tensile strength to the main fabric material which is really very helpful for easy installation. The protective PVDF (fluorinated polymer) lacquers can not only save the PVC membrane from its dirt accumulation performance but at the same time makes it able to enhance its clean ability. In need i.e. at the time of welding the seam the lacquer can be removed with the application of Non weldable PVDF version. In that case its lifespan will ultimately be increased. There is no debate about the top finish PVDF provides because according to the manufacturers this top finish is required to guard the main/base fabric PVC by preventing it from water, wind and UV gradation. For providing this protection the coating or top finish PVDF that claims itself to be self cleaning has to take course of work in the shop which the architect also may not be aware of.
So in order to conclude it can be mentioned that PVDF top coating or lacquer not only protects the base material PVC from dirt accumulation but also provides it with a better maintenance free and brighter surface which are really indispensible to retain the good quality of PVC membrane tensile and makes it more sellable.