Borealis announces the success of a value chain collaboration to develop a chemically recycled drinking water pressure pipe. Around 660 meters of polyethylene PE100-RC (crack resistant) drinking water pressure pipes based on Borealis’ transformational technology platform are being laid in Vienna, marking a significant step forward on the path to a circular economy. The installation is the result of a pilot project to help Wiener Wasser (the Vienna Water Department), increase the sustainability of its operations.

The groundbreaking initiative is the outcome of an all-Austrian partnership between Borealis, Pipelife, a solution brand of wienerberger, and Wiener Wasser—a collaboration carried out in the spirit of, Borealis’ platform to accelerate the transition to a circular economy for plastics.

Creating drinking water pressure pipes from recycled plastic posed a significant challenge due to the high purity and quality requirements of materials used in sensitive and demanding applications. The breakthrough was made possible by Borcycle C technology, with which polyolefin-based waste is chemically recycled into new, virgin-quality plastics that are capable of meeting stringent performance standards.

“This is an excellent example of how our infrastructure pipe solutions are enabling life’s essentials,” states John Webster, Borealis Global Commercial Director Infrastructure. “We have a long track record of providing innovative and advanced pipe solutions for the global infrastructure industry. In expanding our offering to include more sustainable solutions, we’re pleased to continue this legacy.”

The project also leverages the considerable experience of Pipelife, an international manufacturer of piping solutions, which is part of wienerberger, one of the leading providers of innovative, ecological solutions for the entire building envelope in the areas of new buildings and renovations, as well as infrastructure in water and energy management.

"We aim to support our customers by anticipating their future needs and developing processes and products to meet them,” says Zoran Davidovski, Pipelife Head of Research & Development and Sustainability. “Integrating chemically recycled materials into our product range is a perfect example of this, and also aligns with our own commitment to advancing sustainability." 

This pilot project is intended to pave the way for future collaborations between the partners, confirming Austria’s position as a leader in sustainable innovation.