Coal-tar epoxy (CTE) coating was selected to protect the external surfaces of the pre-stressed concrete
cylinder pipe (PCCP) in aggressive ground conditions of Libya. This coating was selected based on
cost and application efficiency. CTE has good track record and has good dielectric properties.
However, it ages fast, cracks easily and is brittle.
This paper compares two CTE coatings, from different suppliers. It also presents and discusses the
results of the testing programs carried out to evaluate the performance of CTE after fifteen (15) years of
service. The test results showed acceptable performance of the coal tar epoxy coating.
Keywords: coating systems, coal tar epoxy, coating qualification, coating service life, weathered and
non-weathered samples.