The Environmental Impact of Oriented PVC Water Pipes and Fittings

As industries prioritise sustainability, advancements in materials and new solutions are being developed in all sectors. The growing demand for sustainable infrastructure has led to the development of more efficient and environmentally friendly piping solutions, ensuring a lower carbon footprint and higher durability. Oriented PVC (PVC-O) pipes are not only improving performance but also reducing environmental impact.

The global push for decarbonisation and a circular economy has led companies to innovate more sustainable products. Governments and organisations worldwide are taking action, developing awareness-raising initiatives, and implementing regulations and promoting an improvement in the impact of products placed on the market, and the water piping industry is no exception.

Companies are therefore developing new materials and optimising their manufacturing processes to reduce their carbon footprint. Molecor has implemented these values in its working philosophy since its conception and this has enabled the development of oriented PVC products with unique air-based technology, a new solution for the creation of improved and more sustainable piping networks. This commitment aligns with global environmental goals and supports the transition towards a greener future.

PVC: Myths vs. Facts
Despite misconceptions, PVC is a crucial material for sustainable development. As the third most produced polymer worldwide, it boasts durability, corrosion resistance and fire resistance. Unlike many plastics, PVC requires less petroleum in its composition—only 43%, with the rest derived from common salt and depending on its function it is not necessary to use heavy metals as stabilizers. This makes it a more sustainable option than many other synthetic materials. Additionally, it is 100% recyclable, further reducing its environmental impact. Over half of its applications in construction last between 15 and 100 years, ensuring that less material is needed over time.

PVC is often criticised for its potential environmental impact, but studies show that it has a lower carbon footprint compared to many alternative materials. With advancements in recycling and production technologies, PVC continues to be an excellent choice for long-term infrastructure projects. This is one of the reasons why only 0.7% of municipal solid waste consists of PVC products.

Within PVC there are multiple versions of the polymer, the inclusion of additives or mechanical transformation processes can alter its characteristics and give it new or improved properties. 

The Advantages of Molecular Orientation
Molecular orientation is a feature that can be achieved in amorphous polymers, the molecular rearrangement of the structure of the polymeric chains improves their properties, all without any change in the formulation. By means of this mechanical process, Molecor produces pipes and fittings for water canalization with characteristics that improve the performance of water conduction networks and facilitate the installation process.

Oriented PVC is the result of rearranging the amorphous structure of PVC-U into a layered structure. Applied to pipes and fittings, the molecular orientation process creates a laminated structure to provide unbeatable mechanical properties in plastic pipes, such as: high impact resistance (almost unbreakable), high stiffness and fatigue resistance, excellent load loss behaviour, prevention of crack propagation and maximum ductility. 

This rearrangement or alignment is achieved by elongation of the plastic under special conditions that allow the molecules to rotate in the direction of deformation. Although these molecular changes are not visible on a macroscopic scale, it is fully visible with an electron microscope. As it is a physical process, there is no chemical change, so there are no significant changes in the PVC formulation.

The environmental impact of PVC-O
The sustainability of a piping system depends on its materials, production process, and longevity. PVC-O pipes consume less energy over their lifespan and produce fewer greenhouse gas emissions compared to alternatives. Their impact on climate change, including ozone layer depletion, is significantly lower.

By utilising advanced manufacturing techniques, Molecor further reduces the environmental footprint of TOM® PVC-O pipes and ecoFITTOM® fittings. The company employs air-based orientation technology instead of traditional water-based methods, cutting down energy consumption during production. This unique process optimises efficiency while maintaining the superior properties of PVC-O materials.

Additionally, Molecor integrates renewable energy sources in the manufacturing plant in Spain, such as photovoltaic systems, generating over 1.4 million kWh annually. This renewable energy investment ensures that production remains environmentally responsible while minimising dependence on fossil fuels. The incorporation of renewable energy sources further supports global efforts to combat climate change and reduce carbon emissions in industrial processes.

Circular Economy and PVC-O
The circular economy focuses on reducing waste and reusing materials. By adopting this approach, industries can minimise their impact on the environment while maximising resource efficiency. Molecor embraces this model by designing long-lasting products, with TOM® pipes tested for over 100 years of service. Their durability ensures a lower replacement rate, significantly decreasing waste generation and resource consumption.

PVC’s resistance to chemical degradation ensures water quality preservation while minimising raw material usage. Since PVC-O pipes maintain their structural integrity over long periods, they provide a reliable and safe water transport solution. Furthermore, their lightweight design allows for easier transportation and installation, reducing energy consumption and associated emissions.

Moreover, Molecor operates an efficient recycling system, reintegrating nearly all production by-products. This results in almost zero waste, significantly lowering landfill deposits. The company follows a continuous reuse process, ensuring that all rejected materials are repurposed into new pipes and fittings. By maintaining a closed-loop production cycle, Molecor sets an example for other industries looking to transition towards a more sustainable future.

The Future of Water Infrastructure
As the global population grows, the demand for efficient and sustainable water systems continues to rise. Investing in durable, low-impact materials such as PVC-O are essential for meeting future challenges. With its numerous environmental advantages, PVC-O stands out as a leading solution for modern water infrastructure.

Governments and industries must work together to promote the adoption of sustainable materials. By prioritising energy-efficient production methods and supporting circular economy initiatives, we can create a more resilient and environmentally friendly infrastructure. Companies like Molecor play a vital role in this transformation, demonstrating that innovation and sustainability can go hand in hand.