TEXTILES.ORG
Taiyo Kogyo Corp. has launched Purify Mesh 30, which the company says is the world’s first PVC mesh membrane that incorporates TiO2 photocatalyst coating for building façade applications. Birdair, a member of the Taiyo Kogyo Group, has announced that it will carry Purify Mesh 30, providing it primarily for its North American customer base.
The product allows for the design of stunning structures with the flexibility of membrane. This product can transform building façades into unique free-form curvature designs. It also allows architects to experiment and create a variety of lighting conditions with light transmitting through the mesh openings, allowing for the appearance of iconic structures from the outside, while maintaining high visibility inside the space. A range of color choices, including metallic, offers architects unique design opportunities.
Since it absorbs natural sunlight (UV) and decomposes organic matter, it offers a self-cleaning element, as well. When the natural sunlight irradiates the membrane, the stains from organic matter, such as dirt, decompose and are washed away with the rain, so that required cleaning and maintenance are minimal. Also, it actually reduces pollution by decomposing NOx through oxidation reactions, which purifies the surrounding air.
The product can be used over glass, creating a thermal barrier and offering relief for building occupants, while allowing sunlight in. For example, when combined with 10 mm float glass, white Purify Mesh 30 reflects 41 percent of solar heat with 22 percent transmittance. When using the product, visibility is much higher with the surface coated in black versus white.
Birdair Inc. is a design/build contractor of custom tensile structures throughout the world. The company offers a selection of architectural fabric membranes, including PTFE fiberglass, ETFE film, PVC and Tensotherm™, an insulated tensioned membrane system. Birdair is a member of the Taiyo Kogyo Group.