Plastic water pipe systems depend on adhesives to join them, typically solvent-based PVC cements, two-part epoxies and polyurethanes. They perform well, but many rely on hazardous building blocks such as bisphenol A, epichlorohydrin and diisocyanates, and on solvents of concern such as THF. Set adhesive also contaminates its packaging, making the packaging difficult or impossible to recycle. With drinking water and chemicals legislation tightening across Europe, the industry needs alternatives that match today's performance without these drawbacks.
Aliaxis, a global leader in piping and fluid management systems, launched its Future Materials Program to find innovators who could help.
Addible proposed a portfolio of solutions, from near-term solvent substitution to new bio-based adhesive systems designed to be separated from their packaging at end of life. Each proposal was assessed for technology readiness, risk and potential impact, and designed around Drinking Water Directive compliance and future-proofing against REACH.
Addible was selected as a winner of the program and received funding to carry out proof-of-concept research.
Working in our Kildare laboratory, we focused on two of our proposals.
The project delivered early proof that bio-based adhesives and safer solvent systems can work on real pipe materials. This provides a foundation for further development towards the strength and durability that commercial pipe systems demand.
