Performance Optimization of HDPE and Polypropylene Drainage Networks in Urban Roadway Expansions: A Case for Modernizing Stormwater Standards
Year: 2021
Type: article
Abstract: Rapid urbanization and escalating climate-related hydrologic events require the modernization of urban drainage systems to ensure 100-year infrastructure resilience.Conventional reinforced concrete pipe networks are structurally vulnerable to material corrosion and seismic forces, necessitating a shift toward high-performance polymeric materials.High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) and Polypropylene (PP) offer superior chemical resistance, longevity, and installation flexibility, evidenced by successful field performance under demanding conditions.However, maximizing the structural and hydraulic potential of these flexible pipes is limited by outdated, prescriptive engineering standards that fail to account for advanced soil-structure interaction principles inherent to polymer design.This research evaluates the critical performance parameters which include material durability, load response, and hydraulic efficiency of HDPE and PP networks suitable for urban roadway expansions.A comprehensive methodology is developed utilizing numerical modeling, accelerated degradation testing, and in-situ performance validation.The collective analysis strongly supports a shift from rigid, material-specific mandates to verifiable performance-based acceptance (PBA) criteria.This fundamental regulatory modernization is essential to incentivize material innovation, integrate sustainable elements like recycled content, and fully leverage the proven resilience and cost-efficiency of modern polymeric stormwater conveyance systems.
Authors: Harshit Sheladiya, Raj Patel, Raj Patel
Language: English
Subfield: Environmental Engineering
Field: Environmental Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
OpenAlex ID: W7124154123