Field Verification of Structural Performance of Thermoplastic Pipe Under Deep Backfill Conditions

This report provides information regarding the structural performance of thermoplastic pipes under relatively deep soil cover conditions. The eighteen (12 HDPE, 6 PVC) thermoplastic pipes, with diameter ranging from 30 to 60 in., were instrumented with sensors, embedded in granular backfill in shallow trenches, and subjected to 20-ft. or 40-ft. high soil fill for about 10 months. Their installation plans involved two types of backfill soil, three relative compactions, and varying bedding thickness to study the effects of these installation parameters on the pipe performance.