What role does polyethylene’s resistance to stress cracking play in long-term installations?
Polyethylene, particularly high-density polyethylene (HDPE), is widely used in long-term installations due to its exceptional resistance to stress cracking. This property ensures structural integrity over decades, even under constant mechanical or environmental stress. Stress cracking occurs when a material fails under prolonged tension, but polyethylene’s molecular structure minimizes this risk, making it ideal for underground pipes, geomembranes, and industrial storage. Its durability reduces maintenance costs and extends service life, proving critical in infrastructure and environmental applications. By resisting stress cracking, polyethylene maintains performance in harsh conditions, solidifying its role as a reliable material for sustainable engineering solutions.
