A new two-layer polyethylene (2LPE) coating has been developed using state-of-the-art adhesive
technology to bridge the gap between conventional 2LPE with mastic adhesive and three-layer polyethylene
(3LPE). This new coating has very good mechanical properties to address the relatively low shear strength of
mastic adhesives at higher service temperatures while providing excellent corrosion resistance without the use
of an epoxy primer as in 3LPE. While both existing coatings have excellent track record when used in the
proper environment, the relative low shear resistance of the mastic adhesive and high cost of 3LPE warrants a
new coating. The new coating uses a hybrid adhesive which combines both the mastic and the functionalized
polyolefin attributes, hence providing excellent corrosion resistance and adequate shear properties to withstand
pipe movement and significantly reduce stockpiling and handling problems in high climate temperatures.
Keywords: pipeline coating, adhesive, two-layer extruded polyethylene, three-layer extruded polyethylene