Proven to Perform: The Scientific Case for PVC & PVCO
In this comprehensive report, researchers analyze decades of scientific data regarding pipe permeation, soil contamination, and long-term durability.
Superior Barrier Against Contaminants
PVC is a high-polarity material, which provides an inherent defense against common soil pollutants like Gasoline and Diesel.
“The calculated permeation rates are virtually zero for many centuries, indicating that rigid PVC pipe is an effective barrier against permeation of environmental pollutants.”
- A. R. Berens, Prediction of Organic Chemical Permeation Through PVC Pipe, Research & Technology, AWWA, 77 (11), pp. 57-64, 198
The Future of Resilient Infrastructure: Why PVC & PVCO are the Proven Standard
Data from across the U.S. and Canada proves that PVC water mains consistently outperform other surveyed materials.
- Extreme pH Resistance: These pipes show exceptional resistance to both high and low pH conditions that typically impact metal infrastructure.
- Permeation Resistance: We can see that permeation of plastic pipes is a very rare occurrence and it occurred mainly with polybutylene, a kind of plastic pipe that is no longer used for modern installations. PE and PVC pipes are extremely reliable with PVC performing best of all.
- Corrosion Proof: Unlike metal pipes, PVC is corrosion resistant, making it ideal for the 75% of utilities that report corrosive soil conditions.
Advanced PVCO Performance
Oriented PVC (PVCO) provides even greater security for high-stakes installations. The molecular orientation process increases the overall strength of the pipe as well as maintaining PVC’s inherent resistance to permeation
Featured Resources
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