Today, polyethylene is the main material used for underground water and gas pipelines. In addition to the more common PE 80 type, there is also a growing use of PE 100 type pipes that can be operated at higher pressures. Both types have advantages and disadvantages. A German energy supply company has so far opted for PE 80. PE 100, produced with a new catalyst system from Phillips, could eliminate the disadvantages of the existing PE 100 pipe materials.