Abstract: A socket is provided whereby pipe ends are joined together so that a gas and water-tight connection is established between the pipes. The socket is generally in the form of a tubular shell having at least one projection extending radially from an inner face of the shell. Annular elements are provided at distal ends of the shell to both center the pipes to be joined within the socket, as well as seal the annular space formed between the outer surface of the pipes and the inner surface of the socket. Annular flanges located on either side of the projection are provided to receive the ends of the pipes to be permanently joined and seal the annular spaces.

Abstract: An adhesive composition and a method for its use in bonding rigid PVC elements. The adhesive composition comprises: (1) a first dissolved PVC polymer having a K-value of about 58 .+-. and a second dissolved PVC polymer having a K-value of about 45 to about 52; (2) at least one cyclic organic solvent; and (3) at least one non-cyclic organic solvent.