Warren Lecture with Andrew J Whelton

Andrew J Whelton
Civil Engineering and Environmental and Ecological Engineering, Purdue University
"Preventing Future Safety and Environmental Problems: Experiences of Polymers in Water Infrastructure Systems"

ABSTRACT: As buried water infrastructure in the U.S. continues to deteriorate, many communities are racing to replace and replace these assets. Many of these communities are choosing to repair pipes in place, or replace with polymer materials. This is also the case for building systems and new construction, where polymer material use can be 90% less costly than legacy materials and methods. Whelton describes his experience with polymer prevalence in water infrastructure systems and product failures, and recommends education to lessen the chance of future failures and health impacts.