Material properties of PE

2 Material properties of PE

2.2 Properties of PE100

Unit Test method

Value

2.1 General material properties of polyethylene (PE)

Thermoplastics are sub-divisible into two groups: amorphous and semicrystalline thermoplastics. Polyethylene is a polyolefin, which forms a
separate group among the semi-crystalline thermoplastics. Polyethylene,
abbreviated PE, is an umbrella term for a group on individually distinctive
PE types.
In specific, the following PE types are distinguished:
- PE-LD (Density: 0.9 - 0.91 g/cm3)
- PE-LLD (Density: 0.91 - 0.93 g/cm3)
- PE-MD (Density: 0.93 - 0.94 g/cm3)
- PE-HD (Density: 0.94 - 0.965 g/cm3)

g/cm3

ISO 1183

0.958

Elasticity
modulus

N/mm2

ISO 527

900

Tensile creep
modulus

N/mm2

ISO 899

850

N/mm2 DIN 54852-Z4

1200

Bending creep
modulus

It is PE-HD that is of primary interest for use in plastic pipe construction,

although PE-MD is also used in the gas-pipe sector. The characteristics of
PE-MD will, however, not be further detailed in this Specification Manual.
PE-HD (high density) has a high density with an average molar mass
(MM) between 40,000 and 400,000 g/mol (depending on the manufacturing process and the process parameters). In comparison, PE-LD (low
density) has a lower density and therefore a molar mass of up to 600,000
g/mol. PE-HD is manufactured as a polymer either by using a medium
pressure procedure (Phillips) or a low pressure procedure (Ziegler). Polymers based on ethylene offer semi-finished product manufacturers a
great deal of latitude in making modifications. For pipe and fitting manufacture, it is the mechanical properties of PE that are foregrounded (elastic stiffness).
As mentioned at the beginning of this chapter, PE is to be understood as
an umbrella term for a thermoplastic group. For instance, PE includes the
substance PE100.
More attention will be paid to the significance of the numerical values
(e.g. PE100) in the course of chapter 4. For the sake of simplification, the
label "PE" will be used throughout the rest of this manual to designate
PE-HD. PE is resistant to acids, bases, saline solutions, water, alcohol and
oil. Under 60C, it is practically insoluble in nearly all organic solvents. PE
can readily withstand ionised rays if they are not too strong and will not
become radioactive itself. It is furthermore readily weldable, although
there are problems involved in gluing and decorating PE. The surfaces
will allow imprinting or painting to adhere only after physical or chemical
pre-treatment. Bonding can only be done with the help of contact glue,
although such adhesive bonds cannot be subject to very high mechanical
loads.

Density
at 23C

Tensile strength
at 23C

N/mm2

ISO 527

23

Elongation
at break

ISO R 527

>600

Linear expansion
coefficient

mm/mK

DIN 53752

0.13 - 0.19

Indentation
hardness

N/mm2

ISO 2039

36 - 46

Ignition
temperature

~350

Thermal
conductivity

W/m . K

DIN 52612

0.23

ISO 868

65

Shore hardness
Crystallite
melting range

~130

Operational
temperature range

-40 - +100

Melt flow rate

MFR 190/5

g/10min

ISO 1133

0.43

Table 2.1

Material properties of PE 19

Material properties of PE
Properties PE

Benefits

Impact-resistant and tough

Unbreakable at temperatures > 5C

Elastic

Suitable for underground pipes through adjustment to

local ground movement

Thermal resistant

Application possible between -40C and 100C

Smooth internal wall

Low blockage risk due to low deposit/residue effects

Wear resistant

Lower costs due to relatively long life

Weather-resistant / UV resistant

Application in open air unrestricted through colouring

with carbon black

Chemical Resistance

Suitable for the transport of polluted waste water

Poor heat conductivity

No condensation during short periods of cooling

Non-toxic

Environmentally friendly

Insulating

Non-conductive

Highly suitable for welding

Easy installation using butt-welding and electrofusion

techniques

Homogeneous welded joints

End load resistant and leak proof

Prefabrication

Reduces on-site installation times

Light in weight

Cost-saving in transport and handling

Table 2.2

20 Material properties of PE

Material properties of PE
2.3 Chemical resistance
Table 2.3 indicates the chemical resistance of PE to various media at a
number of temperatures.
In transporting chemicals, consideration needs to be given to the following factors:
- the medium
- concentration of the medium
- temperature
- duration of the load
- flow volume
The elastomer resistance list is intended as an aid for determining the
suitability of a given seal. The indicated values refer to the volume of swelling for the rubber compound, which is only one of the indications concerning resistance. Chemical damage to the polymer chain can also lead to
changes in mechanical properties such as tensile strength, elasticity at
break, etc. The most commonly indicated values are measured at a temperature of 20C. A longer exposure to a higher temperature can create
more aggressive conditions that reduce the life-span of elastomers.
Explanation of symbols used for PE pipes and fittings:
+
Resistant: based on performed tests, PE is in general a suitable
material for this application
/
Limited resistance: further research required
Non-resistant
Empty field = The material has not been tested on this medium at this
temperature.
1 Little of no effect: volume change <10%, the elastomer can display
slight swelling and/or loss of physical characteristics under heavy
conditions.
2 Possible change of physical qualities: volume change of 10-20%, the
elastomer can display swelling and a change of physical
characteristics, can be suitable for structural applications.
3 Substantial change in physical characteristics: the elastomer displays a
substantial change in volume and physical qualities.
4 Excessive change: elastomer is unsuitable.
Empty field = The elastomer has not been tested on this medium.
Abbreviations used:
PE
= polyethylene
NBR = acrylonitrile butadiene
EPDM = ethylene propylene
FPM = fluorocarbon
SBR = styrol butadiene

Material properties of PE 21

Material properties of PE
Component
Name
Acetaldehyde
Acetaldehyde
Acetic Acid
Acetic Acid
Acetic Acid
Acetic Acid
Acetic Acid
Acetic Acid Anhydride
Acetone
Acetone
Acetophenone
Acrylonitrile
Adipic Acid
Alcohol
Alcoholic Spirits
Allyl Alcohol
Alum
Alum
Aluminium Acetate
Aluminium Bromide
Aluminium Chloride
Aluminium Fluoride
Aluminium Nitrate
Aluminium Sulfate
Aluminium Sulfate
Ammonia
Ammonia Gas
Ammonia Gas
Ammonium Acetate
Ammonium Bifluoride
Ammonium Carbonate
Ammonium Chloride
Ammonium Fluoride
Ammonium Fosfate
Ammonium Hydroxide
Ammonium Hydroxide
Ammonium Nitrate
Ammonium Sulfate
Ammonium Sulfhydrate
Ammonium Sulfhydrate
Ammonium Sulfide
Ammonium Sulfide
Amyl Acetate
Amyl Alcohol
Amyl Chloride
Aniline
Aniline Chlorhydrate
Anthraquinone Sulfonic
Acid
Antimony Trichloride
Aqua Regia
Arsenic Acid
Barium Carbonate
Barium Chloride
Barium Hydroxide
Barium Nitrate
Barium Sulfate
Barium Sulfide
Beer
Benzaldehyde
Benzene
Benzene + Benzine

22 Material properties of PE

Concentration
Formula

Pipe and fittings

Remark

CH3CHO
CH3CHO
CH3COOH
CH3COOH
CH3COOH
CH3COOH
CH3COOH
(CH3CO)2O
CH3COCH3
CH3COCH3
CH3COC6H5
CH2=CH-CN
HOOC(CH2)4COOH

Aqueous solution
Technically pure
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Technically pure
Technically pure
Aqueous solution
Technically pure
Technically pure
Technically pure
Aqueous solution

CH2=CH-CH2OH
Al2(SO4)3K2SO4 4H2O
Al2(SO4)3K2SO4 4H2O
(CH3COO)3Al
AlBr3
AlCl3
AlF3
Al(NO3)3
Al2(SO4)3
Al2(SO4)3
NH3
NH3
NH3
CH3COONH4
NH4FHF
(NH4)2CO3
NH4Cl
NH4F
(NH4)3PO4 X H2O
NH4OH
NH4OH
NH4NO3
(NH4)2SO4
NH4OH(NH4)2SO4
NH4OH(NH4)2SO3
(NH4)2S
(NH4)2S
CH3COO(CH2)4CH3
CH3(CH2)3CH2OH
CH3(CH2)4Cl
C6H5NH2
C6H5NH2HCl

Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Technically pure
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution

Technically pure
Technically pure
Aqueous solution

SbCl3

Aqueous solution

Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Technically pure

3HCl+1HNO3

H3AsO4
BaCO3
BaCl2
Ba(OH)2
Ba(NO3)2
BaSO4
BaS

Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution

C6H5CHO
C 6H 6

Aqueous solution
Technically pure

Elastomeric seals

HDPE

NBR

EPDM

FPM

SBR
C

20

40

60

20

20

20

20

40%
100%
10%
30%
60%
80%
100%
100%
10%
100%
Indetermined
100%
Saturated
40%
Comm. Comp.
96%
Solution
Saturated
Saturated
Saturated
All
Saturated
Saturated
10%
Saturated
Solution
Saturated
100%
Saturated
Saturated
100%
Saturated
25%
All
Solution
Saturated
Saturated
All
Solution
Saturated
10%
Saturated
100%
100%
100%
100%
Saturated
Solution

+
+
+
+
+
/
+
+
+
/
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
/
/
+

+
/
+
+
+
/
+
/
+
/
+
+
+

/
/
+
+
+
/

4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
1

2
2
3/4
4
4
4
4
2
1
1
1
4
1

4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
1

3
3
4
4
4
4
4
2
2/3
2/4
4
3
1

2
2
2
1
2
2
1
2
2
2
2
2

1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1

1
1
4
1
1
1
1
1
1
3
3
3

1
1
4
1
1
1
1
1
1
2
2
2

2
1
1
1
4
4
2
1

1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1

2
1
1
1
2
2
1
1

2
1
1
1
4
4
1
1

1
1
4
2
1
1
1

1
1
3
1
4
3
1

90%
100%
Saturated
All
All
Saturated
Saturated
Saturated
Saturated
100%
Saturated
100%
20/80%

+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
/
/

+
+
+
+

+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+

+
+
+
+
+
+
+

+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+

+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
/
+

+
+
+
+

+
+
+
/

1
1
4
2

4
2

1
1
2
2
4
2/3
2

+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
-

+
-

1
4

1
4

1
2/3

1
4

1
1

1
1

1
1

1
1

1
1
1
4
4
2/3

1
1
1
2
4
4

1
1
1
4
3
2

1
2
1
3
4
4

+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
-

Material properties of PE
Component
Name
Benzene Sulfonic Acid
Benzine (Free Of Pb And
Aromatic)
Benzoic Acid
Benzyl Alcohol
Bleaching Lye
Borax
Boric Acid
Brine
Bromic Acid
Bromine,Liquid
Bromine,Liquid
Butadiene
Butane Gas
Butanediol
Butanediol
Butyl Acetate
Butyl Alcohol
Butyl Ether
Butyl Phenol
Butyl Phthalate
Butylene
Butylene Glycol
Butylene
Butyric Acid
Butyric Acid
Calcium Acetate
Calcium Bisulfite
Calcium Carbonate
Calcium Chlorate
Calcium Chloride
Calcium Hydroxide
Calcium Hypochloride
Calcium Nitrate
Calcium Sulfate
Calcium Sulfide
Camphor Oil
Carbon Dioxide
Carbon Dioxide
Carbon Disulfide
Carbon Monoxid
Carbon Tetrachloride
Carbonic Acid
Chloramine
Chloric Acid
Chlorine
Chlorine
Chlorine
Chlorine Water
Chloro Benzene
Chloro Sulfonic Acid
Chloroform
Chrome Alum
Chrome Alum
Chromic Acid
Chromic Acid
Chromic Acid
Citric Acid
Compressed Air with Oil
Copper Acetate
Copper Chloride
Copper Fluoride
Copper Nitrate

Concentration
Formula

Pipe and fittings

Remark

4
4

4
4

1
1

4
4

+
+
/
+
+

+
/
+
+

4
4
4
1
1

4
1
1
1
1

1
1
1
1
1

4
4
4
1
1

+
+
/
+
-

+
+
/
+
-

4
4
4
3
2

1
3
4
4
4

1
2
1
2
2

4
4
4
4
4

4
1
4
4

2
2
3
4

4
1
4
2

4
1
4
4

2
1
2

4
1
4

1
1
1

4
1
4

+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
/
+
+
+

/
/
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
/

2
2
1
1
1
1
4
1

1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1

4
2
1
1
1
1
1
1

4
2
1
1
1
1
4
1

1
1
4
2

1
1
4
2

1
1
1
1

1
1
4
2

4
4

3
2

1
4

4
4

/
-

+
+
/
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
/
/
+
/
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
/
+
+
/
+
+
+
/
/
/
/
/
+
+
/
/
/
+
+
+
+
+
+

Cu(COOCH3)2
CuCl2
CuF2
Cu(NO3)2

Technically pure
Technically pure
Technically pure
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution

Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution

C
20

Saturated
100%
12,5% Cl
All
Saturated
Comm. Comp.
10%
100%
High
100%
100%
10%
Concentrated
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
20%
100%
Saturated
Saturated
All
Saturated
All
All
Saturated
50%
Saturated
Saturated
Comm. Comp.
Indetermined
100%
100%
100%
100%
Saturated
Solution
20%
All
100%
100%
Saturated
100%
100%
100%
Saturated
Indetermined
10%
30%
50%
50%
100%
Saturated
Saturated
All
Indetermined

Aqueous solution
Gas
Technically pure
Gas
Technically pure
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Wet
Gas
Technically pure

SBR

20

Aqueous solution
Technically pure

CO2+H2O
CO2
CS2
CO
CCl4
H2CO3
C6H5SO2NNaCl
HClO3
Cl2
Cl2
Cl2
Cl2+H2O
C6H5Cl
HClSO3
CHCl3
KCr(SO4)2
KCr(SO4)2
CrO3+H2O
CrO3+H2O
CrO3+H2O
C3H4(OH)(COOH)3

20

C6H5COOH
C6H5CH2OH
NaClO+NaCl
Na2B4O7
H3BO3

Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Technically pure
Technically pure
Technically pure
Technically pure
Technically pure
Liquid
Technically pure
Technically pure
Aqueous solution
Technically pure
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution

FPM

20

Gas

EPDM

C
60

10%
100%

Technically pure

NBR

C
40

Aqueous solution
Technically pure

HBrO3
Br2
Br2
CH2=CH-CH=CH2
CH3CH2CH2CH3
OHCH2CH2CH2CH2OH
OHCH2CH2CH2CH2OH
CH3COOCH2CH2CH2CH3
CH3(CH2)3OH
(CH3(CH2)3)2O
C4H9C6H4OH
HOOCC6H4COOC4H9
CH2=CH-CH2CH4
OHCH2-CH=CH-CH2OH
CH2=CH-CH2CH3
CH3CH2CH2COOH
CH3CH2CH2COOH
Ca(CH3COO)2
Ca(HSO3)2
CaCO3
Ca(ClO3)2
CaCl2
Ca(OH)2
Ca(CIO)2
Ca(NO3)2
CaSO4
CaS

HDPE
20
C6H5SO3H
C5H12C12H26

Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution

Elastomeric seals

+
+

+
+
+
+

+
+
+

4
4
4
2

2/3
2/3
2/3
1

1
1
1
1

4
4
4
2

+
+
+

+
+
+

2
1
2
2

1
1
1
1

4
1
1
1

4
1
1
1

Material properties of PE 23

Material properties of PE
Component
Name
Copper Sulfate
Copper Sulfate
Cresol
Cresol
Croton Aldehyde
Cryolite
Cyclohexane
Cyclohexanol
Cyclohexanone
Decalin (Decahydronaftalene)
Detergents
Dextrine
Dextrose
Dextrose
Dextrose
Dibutyl Phthalate
Dibutyl Sebacate
Dichloro Benzene
Dichloroacetic Acid
Dichloroacetic Acid
Dichloroacetic Acid
Methyl Ester
Dichloroethylene
Diesel Oil
Diethylether
Diglycolic Acid
Di-Isobutyl Ketone
Dimethyl Amine
Dimethyl Formamide
Dioctyl Phthalate
Dioxane
Ethyl Acetate
Ethyl Alcohol
Ethyl Benzene
Ethyl Chloride
Ethyl Ether
Ethylene Chlorohydrin
Ethylene Diamina
Ethylene Dichloride
Ethylene Glycol
Ethylene Oxide
Exhaust fumes
Fatty Acids
Ferric Chloride
Ferric Nitrate
Ferric Sulfate
Ferrous Chloride
Ferrous Nitrate
Ferrous Sulfate
Fertilizer Salts
Fertilizer Salts
Fluoboric Acid
Fluorine Gas Dry
Fluosilicic Acid
Formaldehyde
Formamide
Formic Acid
Formic Acid
Freon F-12
Fruit pulp and juice
Furfuryl Alcohol

24 Material properties of PE

Concentration
Formula
CuSO4
CuSO4
CH3C6H4OH
CH3C6H4OH
CH3-CH=CH-CHO
Na3AlF6
C6H12
C6H11OH
C6H10O
C10H18

Remark

Elastomeric seals

HDPE

NBR

EPDM

FPM

SBR
C

20

40

60

20

20

20

20

1
1

1
1

1
1

1
1

2
2
4

4
4
3

1
2
4

4
3
4

1
4
4
4
2
3

1
2
2
4
2
2

1
2
2
2
2
3

1
4
4
4
2
3

Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Technically pure
Aqueous solution
Technically pure
Technically pure
Technically pure
Technically pure

Solution
Saturated
>=90%
Solution
100%
Saturated
100%
100%
100%
100%

+
+
+
+
/
/
+
+
+
+

+
+
+
+

+
+
/
/

/
+
/
/
/

+
/
/
/

Aqueous solution

Comm. Comp.
Comm. Comp.
All
Saturated
All
100%
100%
100%
50%
100%
100%

+
+
+
+
+
+
/
+
+
+

+
+
+
+
+

+
+
+
+
+

+
+
+

+
/
+

100%
100%
100%
Saturated
100%

+
+
+

/
-

2
1
4

4
4

2
1
4

4
4
4

2/3

100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
96%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
Traces
100%
Saturated
Indetermined
Saturated
Saturated
Saturated
Saturated
10%
Saturated
100%
100%
32%
37%
100%
50%
100%
100%
Comm. Comp.
100%

/
+
+
+
+
+
/
/
/
+
/
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+

+
/
+
/
+
/
-

/
/
+
/
/

4
4
4
4
2
4
2/3
3
4
2
4
1
3

2
2
2/3
2/3
1
4
4
3
2
1
4
1
3

4
2
4
4
2
2
2
4
2
4
2/3
1
4

3
4
4
4
1
4
4
4
2
2
4
1
4

1
4

1
1

1
4

1
2
4
4
2

1
2
2
2
2/3

1
1
4
4
2

1
1
2
2
4

C6H12O6
C6H12O6
C6H12O6
C6H4(COOC4H9)2
C8H16(COOC4H9)2
C6H4Cl2
Cl2CHCOOH
Cl2CHCOOH
Cl2CHCOOCH3

Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Technically pure
Technically pure
Technically pure
Aqueous solution
Technically pure
Technically pure

CHCl=CHCl

Technically pure

C2H5OC2H5
HOOCCH2OCH2COOH
(CH3)2CHCH2COCH2CH

Technically pure
Aqueous solution
Technically pure

(CH3)2
(CH3)2NH
HCON(CH3)2
C6H4(COOC8H17)2
(CH2)4O2
CH3COOCH2CH3
CH3CH2OH
C 6H 5C 2H 5
CH3CH2Cl
CH3CH2OCH2CH3
ClCH2CH2OH
NH2CH2CH2NH2
CH2CICH2CI
HOCH2-CH2OH
C 2H 4O

Technically pure
Technically pure
Technically pure
Technically pure
Technically pure
Aqueous solution
Technically pure
Technically pure
Technically pure
Technically pure
Technically pure
Technically pure
Technically pure
Technically pure

R>C6
FeCl3
Fe(NO3)3
Fe2(SO4)3
FeCl2
Fe(NO3)2
FeSO4

Pipe and fittings

Technically pure
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Technically pure

HBF4
F2
H2SiF6
CH2O
HCONH2
HCOOH
HCOOH
CCl2F2

Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Technically pure
Aqueous solution
Technically pure
Technically pure

C 5H 6O 2

Technically pure

+
/
+

/
+

+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+

+
/
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+

+
+
+
+
+

+
+
+
+
+

Material properties of PE
Component
Name
Gelatine
Glycerine
Glycocoll
Glycolic Acid
Gas containing:
- Carbon Dioxide
- Carbon Monoxid
- Hydrochloric Acid
- Hydrochloric Acid
- Hydrofluoric Acid
- Nitrous Vapours
- Nitrous Vapours
- Oleum
- Oleum
- Sulphur Dioxide Liquid
- Sulphur Trioxide
- Sulphuric Acid
Heptane
Hexane
Hydrazine Hydrate
Hydrobromic Acid
Hydrobromic Acid
Hydrochloric Acid
Hydrochloric Acid
Hydrochloric Acid
Hydrochloric Acid
Hydrocyanic Acid
Hydrocyanic Acid
Hydrofluoric Acid
Hydrofluoric Acid
Hydrofluoric Acid
Hydrogen Gas
Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen Sulfide
Hydrogen Sulfide
Hydroquinone
Hydroxylamine Sulphate
Iodine Dry And Wet
Iso-Octane
Isopropyl Alcohol
Isopropyl Ether
Lactic Acid
Lanoline
Lard Oil
Lead Acetate
Lead Chloride
Lead Nitrate
Lead Sulfate
Linseed Oil
Lubricating Oils
Lubricating Oils,Free Of
Aromatic
Magnesium Carbonate
Magnesium Chloride
Magnesium Nitrate
Magnesium Sulfate
Maize Oil
Maleic Acid
Malic Acid
Mercuric Chloride

Concentration
Formula

Pipe and fittings

Remark

C3H5(OH)3
NH2CH2COOH
HOCH2COOH

Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution

CO2
CO
HCL
HCL
HF
NO, NO2, N2O3, NOx
NO, NO2, N2O3, NOx
H2SO4 + SO3
H2SO4 + SO3
SO2
SO3
H2SO4
C7H16
C6H14
NH2-NH2 H2O
HBr
HBr
HCl
HCl
HCl
HCl
HCN
HCN
HF
HF
HF
H2
H 2O 2
H 2O 2
H 2O 2
H 2S
H 2S
C6H4O2
(NH2OH)2-H2SO4
I2
C8H18
(CH3)2CHOH
(CH3)2CHOCH(CH3)2
CH3CHOHCOOH

Gas
Gas
Gas
Gas
Gas
Gas
Gas
Gas
Gas
Gas
Gas
Gas
Technically pure
Technically pure
Aqueous solution

Pb(CH3COO)2
PbCl2
Pb(NO3)2
PbSO4

Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution

Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Technically pure
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution

Technically pure
Technically pure
Aqueous solution

MgCO3
MgCl2
Mg(NO3)2
MgSO4

Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution

HOOC-CH=CH-COOH
HOOCCH2CHOHCOOH
HgCl2

Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution

Elastomeric seals

HDPE

NBR

EPDM

FPM

SBR
C

20

40

60

20

20

20

20

100%
All
10%
37%

+
+
+
+

+
+
+
+

+
+

1
1

1
1

1
2

1
1

All
All
All
All
< 0,1 %
< 0,1 %
5%
< 0,1 %
5%
All
< 0,1 %
All
100%
100%
Solution
10%
48%
10%
30%
5%
Saturated
Solution

+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
/
/
+
/
+
+
+
+
+
+
+

+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
/
/
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
/
/
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
/
+
+
+

+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
/
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
/
/
/
+
+
/
+
/
+
+

1
1
2
3
4

4
4
1
2
1

1
1
1
1
1

4
4
3
4

2/3

2/3

2
2
4
4
4
2
2
2
2

2
2
3
3
3
1
1
1
1

1
1
2/3
2/3
2/3
1
1
1
1

2
2
3
3
3
4
2
2
2

+
+
+

1
1
2
2/3
2
1

2
4
1
3
1
4

1
1
1
4
1
1

1
4
2
4
3
4

+
+

+
/

1
2
1

3
4
4

1
1
1

4
4
4

1
2

1
1

1
1

1
1

2
1
1
1
1

1
1
1
4
1

1
1
1
1
1

1
4
1
2
1

10%
40%
70%
100%
10%
50%
90%
Saturated
100%
Saturated
All
3%
100%
100%
100%
<=28%
Comm. Comp.
Comm. Comp.
Saturated
Saturated
Saturated
Saturated
Comm. Comp.
Comm. Comp.
Comm. Comp.
All
Saturated
Indetermined
Saturated
Comm. Comp.
Saturated
Saturated
Saturated

+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+

+
+
+
+
+
+

+
+
+
+
/
+

Material properties of PE 25

Material properties of PE
Component
Name
Mercuric Cyanide
Mercuric Sulfate
Mercurous Nitrate
Mercury
Methane
Methanesulfonic Acid
Methanesulfonic Acid
Methyl Acetate
Methyl Alcohol
Methyl Amine
Methyl Bromide
Methyl Chloride
Methyl Ethyl Ketone
Methylene Chloride
Milk
Mineral oil
Mixed Acids
(Chromic, Sulphuric)
Mixed Acids
(Sulphuric, Nitric)
Mixed Acids
(Sulphuric, Nitric)
Mixed Acids
(Sulphuric, Nitric)
Mixed Acids
(Sulphuric, Phosphoric)
Molasses
Monochloracetic Acid
Monochloroacetic Acid
Ethyl Ester
Naphthalene
Nickel Chloride
Nickel Nitrate
Nickel Sulfate
Nickel Sulfate
Nicotine
Nitric Acid
Nitric Acid
Nitric Acid
Nitric Acid
Nitrobenzene
Nitroethane
Nitromethane
Nitrotoluene
Nitrous Gases
Oleic Acid
Oleum
Oleum
Oleum
Olive Oil
Oxalic Acid
Oxalic Acid
Oxygen
Ozone Gas
Ozone Gas
Palmitic Acid
Paraffin Emulsion
Paraffin Oil
Peanut Oil
Perchloric Acid
Perchloric Acid
Perchloric Acid

26 Material properties of PE

Concentration
Formula

Pipe and fittings

Remark

HDPE

NBR

EPDM

FPM

20

20

20

20

1
1

1
3

1
1

1
3

4
4
4
4
4
1
1

1
4
3
2
4
1
4

4
1
1
4
3
1
1

2
4
4
4
4
1
4

1
4

1
2

1
4

1
1

1
1

1
1

1
1

4
4
4
4

4
4
4
4

2/3
2/3
2/3
2/3

4
4
4
4

4
4

2
2

4
4

2
2

1
2
4
4
4
1
1
1
2
4
4

1
3
4
4
4
4
1
1
1
1
1

1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1

1
4
4
4
4
4
1
1
4
4
4

1
1
1
4
4
4

4
4
3
1
1
1

1
1
1
1
1
2

4
4
4
4
4
4

20

40

60

+
+
+
+
+
/
+
+
/
/
/
+
/
+
/
-

+
+
+
+

+
+
+
+

H2CrO4/H2SO4/H2O

All
Saturated
Saturated
100%
100%
50%
100%
100%
100%
32%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
Comm. Comp.
50/15/35%

H2SO4/HNO3/H2O

10/20/70%

H2SO4/HNO3/H2O

Hg(CN)2
HgSO4
HgNO3
Hg
CH4
CH3SO3H
CH3SO3H
CH3COOCH3
CH3OH
CH3NH2
CH3Br
CH2Cl
CH3COCH2CH3
CH2Cl2

Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Technically pure
Aqueous solution
Technically pure
Technically pure
Technically pure
Aqueous solution
Technically pure
Technically pure

+
/

+
-

48/49/3

H2SO4/HNO3/H2O

50/50%

H2SO4/H3PO4/H2O

30/60/10%

Comm. Comp.
50%
100%

+
+
+

/
/
+

/
/
+

100%
All
Saturated
Solution
Saturated
Indetermined
20%
40%
70%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
Solution
100%
10%
High
Traces
Comm. Comp.
10%
Saturated
All
Saturated
>2%
70%
Comm. Comp.
Comm. Comp.
Comm. Comp.
10%
70%
10%

+
+
+
+
+
+
+
/
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
/
/
/
/
+
+
+
+
+

/
+
+
+
+
+
/
-

/
+
+
/
+
+
/
-

/
/
/
+
+
+

/
/
/
/
+
/

+
+
+
+
/
+

/
+
+
/

+
/
+

+
-

Aqueous solution
Technically pure

C10H8
NiCl2
Ni(NO3)2
NiSO4
NiSO4
C10H14N2
HNO3
HNO3
HNO3
HNO3
C6H5NO2
CH3CH2NO2
CH3NO2
CH3C6H4NO2
NOx
C17H33COOH
H2SO4+SO3
H2SO4+SO3
H2SO4+SO3

Technically pure
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution

HOOCCOOH
HOOCCOOH
O2
O3
O3
CH3(CH2)14COOH

Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution

Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Technically pure
Technically pure
Technically pure
Technically pure
Anhydrous
Technically pure

Aqueous solution

Water-emulsie

HClO4
HClO4
HClO4

Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution

SBR

/
-

ClCH2COOH
ClCH2COOCH2CH3

Elastomeric seals

/
+

Material properties of PE
Component
Name
Petroleum
Petroleum Ether
Phenol
Phenol
Phenylhydrazine
Phenylhydrazine
Hydrochloride
Phosphoric Acid
Phosphoric Acid
Phosphoric Acid
Phosphorous
Penta-Trichloride
Phosphorous Pentoxide
Photographic Developer
Photographic Emulsion
Phthalic Acid
Picric Acid
Potassium Acetate
Potassium Bicarbonate
Potassium Bichromate
Potassium Bisulfate
Potassium Borate
Potassium Bromate
Potassium Bromide
Potassium Carbonate
Potassium Chlorate
Potassium Chloride
Potassium Chromate
Potassium Cyanide
Potassium Ferricyanide
Potassium Fluoride
Potassium Hydroxide
Potassium Hypochlorite
Potassium Iodide
Potassium Nitrate
Potassium Perborate
Potassium Perchlorate
Potassium
Permanganate
Potassium
Permanganate
Potassium Persulfate
Potassium Phosphates
Acids
Potassium Sulfate
Propane Gas
Propane Gas
Propionic Acid
Propyl Alcohol
Propylene Glycol
Propylene Oxid
Pyridine
Silicic Acid
Silicone Oil
Silver Cyanide
Silver Nitrate
Silver Sulfate
Soap
Sodium Acetate
Sodium Alum
Sodium Benzoate
Sodium Bicarbonate
Sodium Bichromate

Concentration
Formula

Pipe and fittings

Remark

HDPE

NBR

EPDM

FPM

40

60

20

20

20

20

1
1
4
4
3

4
4
4
4
3

1
1
2
1
2

4
4
4
4
4

1
1
1

1
1
1

1
1
1

1
1
1

2
1
1
2
1

1
1
1
1
1

1
2
1
1
1

2
4
1
2
1

1
1
1
4
1
2
1

1
1
1
1
1
1
1

1
1
1
1
1
1
1

1
1
1
2
1
2
1

2/3

1
1
1
2

1
4
4
4

1
1
1
1

1
4
4
4

2
4
4

1
1
4

1
4
4

1
4
4

1
2

1
1

1
4

2
4

+
+
+
+
/
+

+
/
/
+
/

/
/

C6H5OH
C6H5OH
C6H5NHNH2
C6H5NHNH2HCl

100%
100%
1%
90%
100%
Saturated

H3PO4
H3PO4
H3PO4
PCl5-PCl3

Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Technically pure

25%
50%
85%
100%

+
+
+
+

+
+
+
/

+
+
/
/

P2O5

Technically pure

+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+

+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
/
+
+
+
+
+

C6H4(COOH)2
C6H2(OH)(NO2)3
CH3COOK
KHCO3
K2Cr2O7
KHSO4
K3BO3
KBrO3
KBr
K2CO3
KClO3
KCl
K2CrO4
KCN
K4Fe(CN)63H2O
KF
KOH
KClO
KI
KNO3
KBO3
KClO4
KMnO4

Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution

100%
Comm. Comp.
Comm. Comp.
50%
1%
Saturated
Saturated
Saturated
Indetermined
Saturated
Saturated
Saturated
Saturated
Saturated
Saturated
Saturated
Saturated
Saturated
Saturated
<=60%
Indetermined
Saturated
Saturated
Indetermined
Saturated
10%

KMnO4

Aqueous solution

Saturated

K2S2O8
K2HPO4 KH2PO4

Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution

Saturated
All

+
+

+
+

+
+

K2SO4
CH3CH2CH3
CH3CH2CH3
CH3CH2COOH
C3H7OH
CH3CHOHCH2OH

Aqueous solution

Saturated
100%
100%
50%
97%
100%
100%
100%
All
Comm. Comp.
All
Saturated
Saturated
All
Saturated
Saturated
Saturated
Saturated
Saturated

+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+

+
+
+

+
+
+

/
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+

/
+
/
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+

C 5H 5 N
H2SiO3
AgCN
AgNO3
Ag2SO4
CH3COONa
NaAl(SO4)2
C6H5COONa
NaHCO3
Na2Cr2O7

Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution

SBR

20
Technically pure
Technically pure
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Technically pure
Aqueous solution

Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Technically pure
Technically pure
Technically pure
Aqueous solution

Elastomeric seals

+
/
+
+
+
+
/
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
/
+
+
+
+
+

Material properties of PE 27

Material properties of PE
Component
Name

Concentration
Formula

Pipe and fittings

Remark

Elastomeric seals

HDPE

NBR

EPDM

FPM

SBR
C

20

40

60

20

20

20

20

Sodium Bisulfate
Sodium Bisulfite
Sodium Bromate
Sodium Bromide
Sodium Carbonate
(Soda)
Sodium Chlorate
Sodium Chloride
Sodium Chloride
Sodium Chromate
Sodium Cyanide
Sodium Disulphite
Sodium Ferrocyanide
Sodium Fluoride
Sodium Hydroxide
Sodium Hydroxide
Sodium Hydroxide
Sodium Hypochlorite
Sodium Hypochlorite
Sodium Iodide
Sodium Metasilicate
Sodium Metasilicate
Sodium Nitrate
Sodium Nitrite
Sodium Oxalate
Sodium Perborate
Sodium Perchlorate
Sodium Peroxide
Sodium Persulphate
Sodium Phosphate
Sodium Phosphate
Monoacid
Sodium Sulfate
Sodium Sulfide
Sodium Sulfide
Sodium Sulfite
Sodium Thiocyanate
Sodium Thiosulphate
Stannic Chloride
Stannous Chloride
Stearic Acid
Styrene
Sugar Syrup
Sulfamic Acid
Sulphur
Sulphur Dioxide Liquid
Sulphur Dioxide Liquid
Sulphur Dioxide Liquid
Sulphur Trioxide
Sulphuric Acid
Sulphuric Acid
Sulphuric Acid
Sulphuric Acid
Sulphuric Acid
Sulphuric Acid

NaHSO4
NaHSO3
NaBrO3
NaBr
Na2CO3

Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution

10%
100%
All
Saturated
Saturated

+
+
+
+
+

+
+
/
+
+

+
+

1
1

1
1

1
1

2
2

+
+

NaClO3
NaCl
NaCl
Na2CrO4
NaCN
Na2S2O5
Na4FeCN6
NaF
NaOH
NaOH
NaOH
NaClO
NaClO
NaI
Na2SiO3
Na2SiO3
NaNO3
NaNO2
Na2C2O4
NaBO3
NaClO4
Na2O2
Na2S2O8
Na3PO4
Na2HPO4

Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution

All
Solution
Saturated
Solution
All
All
Saturated
Saturated
10%
30%
50%
12,50%
3%
All
<5%
Saturated
Saturated
Saturated
Saturated
All
Indetermined
Solution
Saturated
Saturated
Saturated

+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
/
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+

+
+
+

+
+
+

2/3
1
1

2
1
1

1
1
1

4
1
1

2
1

1
1

1
1

1
2

+
+
+
/

+
+
+
/

3
4
1
4
4

1
1
1
1
1

2
3
3
1
1

2
2
2
4
4

+
+
+

+
+
+

1
1

1
1

1
1

1
1

+
+
+

+
+

1
1

1
1

1
1

Na2SO4
Na2S
Na2S
Na2SO3
NaSCN
Na2S2O3
SnCl4
SnCl2
C17H35COOH
C6H5CH=CH2

Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Technically pure

1
2
2

1
1
1

1
1
1

1
3
3

+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
/
+

3
1
1
1
4
1

1
1
1
1
4
1

1
1
1
1
1
1

2
2
1
1
4
1

Aqueous solution

+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
/
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
/
-

+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+

HSO3NH2
S
SO2
SO2
SO2
SO3
H2SO4
H2SO4
H2SO4
H2SO4
H2SO4
H2SO4

Saturated
Solution
Saturated
Saturated
Indetermined
Saturated
Saturated
Saturated
100%
100%
Saturated
20%
100%
Saturated
100%
100%
100%
10%
50%
80%
90%
96%
98%

+
+

+
+

+
+
+
/
-

+
+
/
-

2
4
4

1
1
2

2
2
2

2
4
4

Sulphuric Acid
Sulphurous Acid
Tallow Emulsion
Tannic Acid
Tartaric Acid
Tetrachloroethane

H2SO4
H2SO3

100%
Saturated
Comm. Comp.
All
All
100%

+
+
+
+
/

+
/
+
+
-

+
/
+
+

2
2
2

2
2
2

1
1
2

2
4
2

28 Material properties of PE

C76H52O46
COOH(CHOH)2COOH
CHCl2CHCl2

Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution

Aqueous solution
Technically pure
Technically pure
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
indetermined
Technically pure
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution

Material properties of PE
Component
Name
Tetrachloroethylene
Tetraethyl Lead
Tetrahydrofurane
Tetrahydronaphthalene
Thionyl Chloride
Thiophene
Toluene
Toluic Acid
Transformer Oil
Tributylphosphate
Trichlorethylene
Trichloroacetic Acid
Trichloroacetic Acid
Trichloroethane
Tricresylphosphate
Triethanolamine
Trioctylphosphate
Turpentine Oil
Urea
Urea
Urine
Vaseline Oil
Vegetable Oils and fats
Water
Water
Water
Water
Water
Water, Rain
Water, Salt
Water, Sea
Wine
Wine Vinegar
Xylene
Zinc Acetate
Zinc Chloride
Zinc Chloride
Zinc Chromate
Zinc Cyanide
Zinc Nitrate
Zinc Sulfate
Zinc Sulfate

Concentration
Formula
Cl2C=CCl2
Pb(C2H5)4
(CH2)4O
C10H12
SOCl2
C 4H 8 S
C6H5CH3
CH3C6H4COOH
(C4H9)3PO4
ClCH=CCl2
CCl3COOH
CCl3COOH
CH3CCl3
(CH3C6H4O)3PO4
N(CH2CH2OH)3
(C8H17)3PO4
NH2CONH2
NH2CONH2

Remark

Technically pure

Technically pure
Technically pure

Technically pure
Technically pure
Aqueous solution
Technically pure
Technically pure
Technically pure
Technically pure
Technically pure
Technically pure
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution

H 2O
H 2O
H 2O
H 2O
H2O
H 2O
H2O+NaCl

Technically pure
C6H4(CH3)2
Zn(CH3COO)2
ZnCl2
ZnCl2
ZnCrO4
Zn(CN)2
Zn(NO3)2
ZnSO4
ZnSO4

Pipe and fittings

Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution
Aqueous solution

100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
50%
Comm. Comp.
100%
100%
50%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
<=10%
33%
Indetermined
Comm. Comp.
Comm. Comp.
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
Saturated
100%
Comm. Comp.
Comm. Comp.
100%
Indetermined
Solution
Saturated
Indetermined
All
Indetermined
Solution
Saturated

Elastomeric seals

HDPE

NBR

EPDM

FPM

20

20

20

20

4
2
4

4
4
4

2
1
4

4
4
4

2/3
4
4

1
4
4

1
4
2

2/3
4
4

2
4
4
2
2
4
4
3
4
2
1
1

4
2
4
2
2
4
2
1
1
4
1
1

2
3
2
4
4
1
2
4
2
1
1
1

4
4
4
4
4
4
4
2
4
4
1
1

1
1
1
1
1
2
2
1
1
1
1

4
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1

1
1
1
1
1
2
2
1
1
1
1

4
3
1
1
1
2
2
1
1
1
1

4
2
2
2

4
1
1
1

2
4
1
1

4
4
2
2

1
1

1
1

1
1

1
1

20

40

/
+
/
/
/
/
/
+
+
+
+
/
+
+
/
/
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+

60

/
-

/
-

/
+
/
/

/
+
/
-

+
+

+
/

+
+
+
+
/
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+

+
+
+
/
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+

+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+

+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+

SBR

Table 2.3 Chemical resistance. The data is based on the latest knowledge. When in doubt please contact Technical Support.

Material properties of PE 29

Material properties of PE
2.4 Health assessment of PE
Physiological assessment
General product safety
The European General Product Safety Directive (GPSD) has been incorporated in the Netherlands Commodities Act and the General Product
Safety (Commodities Act) Decree. The core of the GPSD is the obligation
of companies only to sell safe products.
Legislation on hygiene
New European legislation on food and feed hygiene came into effect on
1 January 2006. The EC General Food Law (GFL) lays the groundwork for
food safety. Further elaboration occurs in an EC Food Hygiene Regulation, an EC Feed Hygiene Regulation and a Control Regulation for government. Within this hygiene package, the Netherlands Food and
Consumer Product Safety Authority (Voedsel en Waren Autoriteit, abbreviated VWA) has a central role. The VWA is the governmental organisation that investigates and monitors the safety of food and consumer
products.
Packaging and Consumer Product Regulation
The Netherlands Packaging and Consumer Product (Commodities Act)
Regulation (Regeling Verpakkingen en Gebruiksartikelen, abbreviated
RVG) consists of a list of authorised materials that may be used to produce and package foodstuffs. The authorised RVG list gives values to a
number of substances indicating the quantities that may be present in
the end product as long as Article 2 Paragraph 1 Item c RVG (Commodities Act) is complied with. In addition, the regulation contains a large
number of (migration) limits for the end product. Polyolefins, such as PE,
are frequently used as packaging material.

National regulation of the water supply in the Netherlands

The Netherlands Water Supply Act (Waterleidingwet) has the principle
role in protecting public health against the risk associated with the delivery or supply of tap water. Formulated in 1980, the first European Drinking Water Directive imposed very strict requirements on the quality of
the water meant for human consumption. This EU directive was implemented in the Netherlands in the Water Supply Decree (Waterleidingbesluit), which stipulates that tap water must meet certain legal quality
requirements. Materials used in obtaining, preparing, treating, storing,
transporting or distributing tap water may not have adverse consequences for public health.
Certificate for toxicological elements
An important instrument for protecting the quality of drinking water in
the Netherlands is the Water Supply (Materials and Chemicals) Regulation (Regeling materialen en chemicalin leidingwatervoorziening). This
regulation imposes requirements on the materials and chemicals used in
the preparation and distribution of drinking water and that therefore
come into contact with the drinking water. Under this regulation, products that satisfy the stated requirements are given an official quality certificate by the Minister of Housing, Spatial Development and the
Environment: the KIWA ATA (Certificate for Toxicological Elements).
The requirements governing the quality of drinking water in the Netherlands are laid down in the Water Supply Decree. To enable testing of all
the materials and chemicals used in the drinking water sector, KIWA has
established Authorised Lists containing precise statements of the requirements that chemicals and materials must satisfy to be toxicologically permissible. There is an Authorised List for all plastic pipe materials, such as
PE100 and rubber products.

2.5 Chapter summary

Polyethylene

Polyethylene is abbreviated "PE". PE is a semi-crystalline thermoplastic belonging to the polyolefin group. Depending on the average molar mass, the compound produced may be PE-LD (low density PE), PE-LLD (linear low density PE), PE-MD (medium density PE) and PE-HD (high density PE).

Health assessment of PE

The health assessment of plastic is laid down in food legislation and differs from country to country, making it
necessary for manufacturers to inquire further. In the Netherlands, regulations have been established to govern
substance quantities that can be present in end products. Authorised Lists have been formulated containing the
materials that meet imposed requirements. PE is found on these Authorised Lists.

30 Material properties of PE