Which plastic material is commonly used for water and drainage pipes due to its corrosion resistance?

Polyvinyl Chloride, commonly referred to as PVC, is widely utilized for water and drainage pipes primarily because of its excellent corrosion resistance. PVC does not react with most corrosive substances, which makes it ideal for transporting water and wastewater without degrading or contaminating the flow. Its chemical stability against a variety of acids, bases, and salts ensures longevity and reliability in various environmental conditions.

In addition, PVC is lightweight, durable, and cost-effective compared to traditional materials such as metal, which can corrode over time, leading to leaks and structural failures. Its ease of installation and maintenance further contributes to its popularity in plumbing and drainage applications. The material can also be manufactured to meet specific pressure ratings, allowing it to handle different flow conditions.

While other plastic materials like Polyethylene, Polystyrene, and Polypropylene have their own advantageous properties, they are not as commonly used as PVC for water and drainage piping due to factors such as potential susceptibility to UV degradation (in the case of Polyethylene), limitations in strength and impact resistance (as seen with Polystyrene), or higher costs without significant advantages for this particular application (as with Polypropylene).