Best PVC Paper Award – Daniel Voces of Molecor
Congratulations to Daniel Voces from our partner Molecor, winner of the iPad sponsored by PVC4Pipes and the PVC Pipe Association (PVCPA) for the best PVC paper at PPXXII.
His presentation, Advanced Microstructural Insights and Optimisation Strategies for Oriented PVC (PVC-O) Pipes, highlighted how careful control of the orientation process can further enhance PVC-O’s already outstanding performance.
Using advanced analytical techniques, the study showed how microstructural characterisation can guide improvements in pipe design, ensuring PVC-O continues to set benchmarks for strength, durability, and sustainability.
PVC-O pipes are already recognised as one of the most efficient solutions for transporting water. This award-winning paper confirmed that ongoing innovation will keep them at the forefront of sustainable infrastructure.
PVC-U Pipes – Extrusion Conditions for a 100+ Year Design Lifetime
Joaquín Lahoz Castillo (CEISLAB, Spain) presented the second part of his research on how extrusion conditions influence the long-term performance of PVC-U pipes.
Sponsored by PVC4Pipes, the study showed that fine-tuning processing parameters such as extrusion speed, melt temperature, and cooling conditions can deliver pipes with a design lifetime exceeding 100 years.
These findings provide valuable guidance for producers and reaffirm PVC-U’s role as a safe, durable, and cost-efficient material for sustainable infrastructure.
The first part of the study is available in the PPCA database.
Advanced Recycling Options for Legacy Additives-Containing PVC Pipe Waste
Vincent Stone (PVC4Pipes & VinylPlus®) presented recent breakthroughs in advanced recycling technologies for PVC.
Highlights included:
- VinylPlus RecoChlor and similar processes recovering chlorine from waste-to-energy residues.
- Collaboration with ARCUS Greencycling Technologies, showing that pyrolysis of mixed waste with up to 10% PVC can yield oil meeting petrochemical specifications.
- Confirmation from Professor Kevin Van Geem (Ghent University) that the oil can be processed in steam crackers after treatment.
- Ongoing development of dissolution, gasification, and other technologies by VinylPlus partners.
This work forms part of a broader pre-study, assessing how legacy additives impact PVC recycling and identifying practical solutions. The findings will guide future scale-up projects, ensuring that both chlorine and hydrocarbons in PVC can be recovered for circular use.
Discover all recycling options for PVC.
Discover joint VinylPlus-ARCUS white paper.
Advancing Climate Efficiency in Pipeline Renovation with No-Dig Technology
On behalf of Claes Wiger (A-Plast AB, Sweden), Tobias Johnsen (PVC4Pipes) presented research into trenchless relining with bioattributed PVC liners as a climate-smart alternative to excavation.
Key benefits include:
- 35–55% lower CO₂ emissions compared to GRP and conventional PVC.
- Service life of 100+ years with full recyclability.
- Styrene-free installation, safer for workers and urban environments.
Scalable solution to modernise ageing wastewater networks.
- Green rating in the Swedish Byggvarubedömningen.
Beyond these technical and climate benefits, the no-dig approach also avoids excavation-related social costs such as traffic disruption, noise, and dust — making it a more sustainable choice for both cities and communities.
A Solution for PVC Pipe Waste Legacy Additives
Eric Romers (INEOS Inovyn, Belgium) joined by video to present the latest progress on selective dissolution technologies.
His presentation showed how Vinyloop-D can safely and efficiently recycle PVC waste containing legacy additives, producing REACH-compliant recyclate. The process is targeting an industrial-scale unit by 2030.
Key messages included:
- The technology not only removes legacy additives but also delivers high-quality recyclate suitable for new PVC pipe applications, closing the loop.
- The European PVC industry, under VinylPlus, is a frontrunner in complementing mechanical recycling with advanced methods.
- Sorting and collection schemes are critical to optimise recycling routes.
- A clear regulatory framework will be essential to support investment and adoption.
PVC4Pipes is proud to see such strong innovation ensuring PVC pipes remain part of a sustainable infrastructure future.
30 Years of Corrugated PVC Sewer Systems
Pablo Peinado (Molecor, Spain) reviewed three decades of experience with double wall corrugated PVC pipes in sewage applications.
First introduced in the early 1990s, these pipes combine a smooth inner wall for maximum hydraulic capacity with a corrugated outer wall for long-term stiffness. The design ensures watertight joints, resistance to chemicals and abrasion, and a service life of over 50 years.
More than 55,000 km of corrugated PVC sewer pipelines have now been installed worldwide. Supported by a complete system of fittings and manholes, they continue to prove their durability, ease of installation, and environmental benefits compared to traditional rigid materials.
This case study underlines why corrugated PVC remains a benchmark solution for sewage infrastructure, combining lightweight efficiency with reliable performance.
PVC Pipes and the Hydrogen Transition
Sjoerd Jansma (Kiwa Technology, Netherlands) presented new research on the permeation of hydrogen through plastic pipes, with a focus on PVC.
The study showed that PVC has extremely low hydrogen permeation rates, confirming its suitability for hydrogen distribution. Across all types — PVC-U, PVC-O, and modified PVC — evaluations demonstrate that PVC pipes are a safe and compatible choice for hydrogen transport.
In parallel, PVC4Pipes is supporting ongoing validation work by Kiwa and partners on both existing PVC gas pipelines and new installations, ensuring that PVC’s decades of proven performance in water and gas supply can extend to the next generation of energy infrastructure.
Read more about PVC pipes and hydrogen readiness.
Beyond Hoop: Axisymmetric Stress in PVC Pressure Pipe Joints
Guido Quesada (Hultec, Costa Rica) presented new research into the stresses acting on PVC pressure pipe joints.
Traditionally, hoop stress has been used as the main design criterion. However, joints are subject to more complex axisymmetric stresses under real-world conditions, particularly when exposed to internal pressure and external loads.
Through advanced modelling and testing, Guido demonstrated how these stresses can be more accurately assessed, giving a clearer picture of joint performance.
The results confirm greater confidence in long-term joint integrity and highlight the importance of innovative joint design to ensure leak-free, durable PVC pressure systems.
PVC4Pipes is proud to have Hultec as a partner and Cooperate Sponsor of PPXXII.
