Comparative Study of a New IR-absorbing Film to Improve Solar Shading and Thermal Comfort for ETFE Structures

Standard ETFE foils have a very high solar transmission. This can result in serious problems with overheating and also cause a high degree of thermal discomfort. A new material by Nowofol (Nowoflon ET 6235 Z-IR) uses a new approach: infra-red absorbing (solar IR). Another company is currently developing a multilayer film that maintains high visible light transmission while blocking infrared heat by reflection. Also, the authors are currently working on new options that are not only relying on printing, tinting or colouring of foils. Compared to the state of technology, the new material Nowoflon ET 2356 Z-IR will be examined to quantify their energy saving potential in different application scenarios including different climate zones by using dynamic thermal simulations. Also, the effect on thermal comfort will be investigated.