Disinfection processes for drinking water often involve chlorination. The compatibility of piping materials with chlorinated water is essential for long-term system integrity.
PVC pipe is not vulnerable to chlorinated water. In contrast, PE pipe can be vulnerable. Disinfectants such as chlorine dioxide, used against pathogens like Legionella and Anthrax, can initiate early brittle fracture in PE pipe due to chemical ageing.
This resistance makes PVC a suitable material for drinking water distribution systems where chlorination is used for disinfection, ensuring the pipe's long-term performance and preventing material degradation caused by the disinfectant.