A new technical document that addresses the critical differences between crosslinked polyethylene (PEX) tubing systems with polybutylene (PB) systems has been published by the Plastics Pipe Institute (PPI). The initiative was deemed necessary to eliminate any confusion between the two products because of problems associated with polybutylene, which was discontinued. 

Prepared by PPI’s Building & Construction Division, PPI TN-31 Differences Between Crosslinked Polyethylene (PEX) and Polybutylene (PB) Piping Systems for Potable Water Plumbing Applications discusses the advantages of modern PEX tubing and fittings as compared with PB tubing and fittings, which were last sold in the U.S. during the late 1990s.