Is Schedule 40 PVC conduit allowed to protect a grounding electrode conductor from physical damage?

Schedule 40 PVC conduit is not permitted to be used for the protection of grounding electrode conductors intended for grounding systems. This restriction is due to the physical and electrical characteristics required for grounding conductors. Grounding electrode conductors must be able to effectively carry fault current safely to the ground, and the conduit must be robust enough to sustain potential damage and not interfere with the grounding effectiveness.

If a grounding electrode conductor were to be placed in Schedule 40 PVC, the conduit may not provide adequate mechanical integrity or appropriate bonding and grounding systems needed. Instead, specific types of raceways or methods need to be employed to ensure proper grounding and physical protection against the elements and physical damage. These requirements ensure that the grounding system maintains its integrity and functions as intended under various conditions.