Infrastructure

The study determined that the water was being lost as it was pumped from processing plants to consumers’ tanks, due to pipe and tank degradation over time. Our South American customer Braskem worked very closely with us to create a solution to address this issue. We combined Braskem High Density Polyethylene resin with PLASBLAK® LL6050 masterbatch to help create new, high-performing polyethylene (PE) pressure pipes. The new PE pipes significantly reduce leaks because there are fewer joints and connections. They also last up to 50 years or longer — in part because PLASBLAK LL6050 masterbatch contains one of our high performing p-type carbon blacks, which provides exceptional ultraviolet protection and low moisture absorption for the polymer to prevent premature degradation.

In addition, p-type carbon blacks are both physically clean (low grit) and chemically clean (low sulfur), ensuring the final pipe is smooth and does not affect the taste of the water. The result is that our PLASBLAK LL6050 masterbatch enables Braskem to deliver a high-quality pressure pipe compound — which means long-lasting pipes, less losses and cleaner water for the Brazilian population.

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