SIBUR has developed a new grade of polypropylene PPI003 EX, characterized by increased strength, for the production of corrugated pipes.

Corrugated pipes are widely used in sewer and drainage systems. Due to the use of polypropylene in the production of such pipes, they are lightweight, flexible and durable, which facilitates the process of laying them at a depth of several meters. The service life of corrugated polypropylene pipes is more than 50 years.

Until recently, the demand of Russian corrugated pipe manufacturers was mainly met by import deliveries. The volatility of foreign currencies against the ruble, as well as logistical restrictions, led to a significant increase in the price of imported raw materials, and also limited the possibilities of their purchase. The polypropylene grade developed by SIBUR will allow Russian manufacturers to completely replace imported analogues in the shortest possible time and reduce the costs of purchasing raw materials.

The current demand of the domestic market is up to 36 thousand tons per year. Thanks to the development of the production of the new brand at ZapSibNeftekhim, it can be fully met by domestic supplies.

Vasily Mashukov, Director of Applied Development at SIBUR PolyLab, said: "The development of the PPI003 EX brand was the result of targeted work by the SIBUR Polylab and ZapSibneftekhim teams. We consistently selected a formula capable of providing the required balance of material characteristics. The key stage was the introduction of an alternative catalyst, thanks to which it was possible to achieve both the specified physical and mechanical properties - ring stiffness and impact resistance of pipes, and the stability of the production process. The synergy of the formula and the selected catalyst opened up the possibility of producing a competitive product that fully meets the requirements of the Russian market."

Ruslan Khairullin, Director of the Engineering and Road Infrastructure Division, added: "Corrugated pipes play a key role in the replacement and construction of modern sewer and drainage systems, ensuring reliability and a long service life. We are confident that the use of the domestic brand will make a significant contribution to the implementation of the tasks of the national project "Infrastructure for Life", facilitating the accelerated modernization of utility networks in Russian cities."