Across North America, public works departments are facing increased pressure to address a growing environmental concern: PFAS, often called “forever chemicals.” As regulations evolve and awareness grows, municipalities are taking a closer look at the materials used in their sewer infrastructure—especially those that come into contact with groundwater, stormwater, and wastewater.
Today, infrastructure decisions are about more than performance and cost. Municipalities are increasingly asking an important question: Are the materials used in our systems contributing to long-term environmental risks?
PRO-RING® manhole adjustment rings from Cretex Specialty Products offer a clear advantage. Manufactured from expanded polypropylene (EPP), PRO-RINGs are PFAS-free, providing a durable, environmentally responsible solution for modern sewer solutions, manhole sealing, and grade adjustment.
Understanding PFAS and Why They Matter
PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances) are synthetic chemicals used in many industrial and consumer products because they resist heat, water, and oil.
They are commonly referred to as “forever chemicals” because they do not easily break down in the environment. Once introduced into soil or water, PFAS can remain for decades. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), even small levels of PFAS may be toxicologically significant.
Because of this persistence, PFAS contamination has become a national concern. Many states have introduced legislation to limit their use, and regulatory attention continues to grow.
For municipalities responsible for protecting water resources, this raises an important question: Are the materials used in sewer and stormwater infrastructure contributing to potential contamination?
Infrastructure Materials Are Facing Greater Scrutiny
Historically, materials used in sewer systems were selected primarily for structural performance and cost. As PFAS awareness grows, municipalities are beginning to evaluate infrastructure materials through a broader lens that includes environmental safety.
This is especially relevant for manhole rings and adjustment systems, which are often exposed to groundwater, stormwater runoff, road salts, and chemicals. Materials used in these applications must withstand harsh conditions while avoiding the introduction of harmful substances into surrounding soil or water systems.
As infrastructure specifications evolve, PFAS-free materials are becoming an increasingly important consideration for public works departments.
Why PRO-RINGs Are PFAS-Free
PRO-RING manhole adjustment rings are manufactured from expanded polypropylene (EPP) using ARPRO® material technology. EPP is known for its durability, strength-to-weight ratio, and long-term chemical stability.
Unlike some materials that rely on barrier layers or fluorinated treatments, PRO-RINGs are produced from 100% polypropylene, making them a mono-material product. They are not cross-linked, fluorinated, or surface-treated with fluorinated compounds.
Because of this manufacturing approach, PRO-RINGs do not contain PFAS, eliminating the risk of introducing these persistent chemicals into municipal sewer infrastructure.
EPP is also widely used in applications where chemical stability is critical, reinforcing its suitability for systems that interact with groundwater and stormwater.
Supporting Responsible Sewer Infrastructure
Infrastructure materials installed today can remain in place for decades. Selecting PFAS-free products helps municipalities reduce the potential risk of introducing long-lasting contaminants into the environment.
PRO-RINGs support this approach by combining environmental responsibility with proven performance. Their EPP construction is stable and inert, meaning the material maintains its integrity without contributing harmful chemicals to surrounding soil or water systems.
At the same time, PRO-RINGs support effective manhole sealing, helping create a reliable watertight seal that prevents inflow and infiltration (I&I)—a major concern for wastewater systems.
Performance That Matches the Environmental Benefits
In addition to being PFAS-free, PRO-RINGs deliver the durability municipalities expect from modern sewer solutions.
- Expanded polypropylene is highly resistant to corrosion, road salts, and harsh environmental conditions. Unlike traditional concrete manhole rings, PRO-RINGs will not crack, crumble, or deteriorate over time.
- PRO-RINGs meet or exceed AASHTO HS-25 load requirements and are engineered for a 100-year design life, helping municipalities reduce long-term maintenance and replacement costs.
- Their lightweight design—approximately 1/20th the weight of concrete rings—allows crews to install them quickly without heavy lifting equipment, improving jobsite safety and efficiency.
- Combined with their ability to create a consistent watertight seal, PRO-RINGs help protect sewer systems from costly inflow and infiltration.
A Smarter Choice for Modern Sewer Systems
As PFAS awareness continues to grow, municipalities are increasingly prioritizing infrastructure materials that are both high-performing and environmentally responsible.
PFAS-free PRO-RING manhole adjustment rings from Cretex Specialty Products offer a forward-thinking solution—helping public works departments protect water resources while installing durable infrastructure built to last.
By choosing materials designed to perform for a century without contributing to environmental contamination, municipalities can build sewer systems that serve their communities today and for generations to come.
To learn more about the PRO-RING system, we encourage you to request a free product demonstration. Work directly with our team, experience the PRO-RING system in action, and take a meaningful step toward eliminating inflow and infiltration in your community.