Long-Term Testing Methods for HDPE Pipe - Advantages and Disadvantages: A Review

Abstract High-density polyethylene (HDPE) has become a material of interest for culverts and drainage pipelines as a result of its numerous advantages. The issue of service-life expectancy of HDPE pipes made with recycled versus virgin resins has been the focus of research studies over the past several years. A number of recent studies have confirmed that HDPE is durable with an extended service-life performance of over 100 years. Nevertheless, exposure criteria, such as environment and service conditions, could affect pipe service life. Consequently, giving specific figures on the durability of HDPE pipes needs to be clearly addressed. Such concerns were raised by Quebec’s Ministry of Transportation (MTQ) to assess the durability of HDPE pipes made with recycled or virgin resins taking into consideration exposure conditions in northern climates. This paper provides an overview of the research on the main factors and mechanisms that affect HDPE pipe lifetime. Methods for predicting the lifetime durability of HDPE pipes—including the creep rupture strength, stress crack resistance, and oxidation—are introduced, emphasizing the advantages and disadvantages of each technique. Studies conducted on the fatigue performance of the pipes are highlighted. Moreover, an overview of studies on the use of HDPE pipes manufactured with recycled resins for transportation infrastructure applications is also presented.