Thermal-Oxidative Ageing and Lifetime Prediction of the High-Density Polyethylene Pipes

Polyethylene (PE) pipes are widely used in drinking water distribution networks around the world. In-depth research into the ageing of PE pipes is imperative to ensure their successful use. The study of the ageing of these products is based on the analysis of the kinetics and mechanisms of failure during prolonged exposure to external factors. Understanding polymer degradation mechanisms is crucial for developing stabilisation strategies and predicting lifetimes based on accelerated artificial ageing tests. The aim of this article is to detail the methodology used to predict the service life of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) pipes. Reliable predictions of the service life of underground HDPE pipes must be based on a thorough understanding of the failure mechanisms and on more reliable extrapolation procedures, allowing the transition from relatively short-term test data to long-term service environments.