Development of Methodologies to Evaluate the Uniformity and Reliability of New Formulations of Cross-Linked Polyethylene Pipe

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PexCor Manufacturing is a company based in Calgary, AB that manufactures high quality and affordable PEX-a crosslinked polyethylene pipe for use in industrial and household plumbing and heating applications. The proposed research will build on the successes of recent Engage and Engage Plus projects between the academic research team and PexCor to to develop new methodologies for evaluating the uniformity and reliability of new, more environmentally friendly formulations of PEX-a pipe. We will use sophisticated experimental techniques, such as infrared spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction, and data analysis methods, such as principal component analysis, to characterize and classify new pipe formulations and the effects of different processing conditions and accelerated aging. By developing new, more environmentally friendly pipe formulations with improved performance and reliability, PexCor will achieve a competitive advantage that will allow it to increase its PEX-a pipe market share. This will also lead to significant benefits for Canadians, ranging from the creation of jobs at Calgary-based PexCor, to more reliable, safer pipes for drinking water and radiant floor heating.