Texlon® ETFE Mimics Natural Hills at Hong Kong’s Panda House

Vector Foiltec’s Texlon® ETFE system shapes the Panda House at Ocean Park Hong Kong. It is replicating the natural hills of Hong Kong’s terrain. The highly transparent ETFE foils clad the enclosure, creating a controlled environment that floods with natural light, reducing artificial lighting needs.

Highly Transparent: Benefits for Pandas

The exceptional transparency of Texlon® ETFE allows pandas to bask in natural sunshine. The systems insulation properties maintain ideal temperatures within the habitat. The design accommodates tall vegetation and trees, offering pandas an authentic and enriching habitat.

The high light transmission levels emulate a rainforest environment, fostering a thriving ecosystem within the tropical biosphere.

Texlon® ETFE foils allow impressive light transmission into buildings. A single 100µm foil layer permits over 90% of visible light and 80% of UV-A rays to pass through, essential for plant growth. This high light transmission creates a bactericidal effect, naturally killing bacteria and enabling plants to thrive as in the panda’s natural environment. The use of Texlon® ETFE foils also eliminates the need for artificial fertilizers or pesticides within the biomes.

Eco-Efficient and Panda-Friendly

As an eco-efficient and panda-friendly alternative to glass, Texlon® ETFE offers higher transparency and better insulation. Weighing just 1% of glass, it requires a lighter steel structure, reducing construction and maintenance costs. Despite its lightweight nature, Texlon® ETFE demonstrates outstanding durability, resists UV degradation, and lasts exceptionally long.

Benefits for Visitors and Park Owners

Visitors enjoy unobstructed views of the pandas. The natural light and lush vegetation create an immersive, educational environment, emphasizing conservation importance and panda behaviors. Park owners benefit from reduced energy consumption and operational costs, while the unique design attracts more visitors, increasing revenue. Vector Foiltec takes pride in contributing to Ocean Park’s transformation.

Ready to bring your vision to life? Let’s create something extraordinary together!

Send an e-mail to matthew.penrose@vector-foiltec.com

Information

Date 2008
Location Hong Kong, China
Sector Zoo
Size 2,600 m²
Structure Steel
Type Roof
Architects David Dexter Associates

Expert Contact

Matthew Penrose
Executive Vice President Asia Pacific

Copyright Images: Vector Foiltec

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