Structural Use of Expanded Polystyrene Concrete

Abstract

Expanded polystyrene (EPS) wastes are generated from industries and post-consumer products. They are non-biodegradable but are usually disposed by burning or landfilling leading to environmental pollution. The possibility of using EPS as partial replacement for fine aggregates in concrete has generated research interests in recent times. However, since the physical and mechanical properties of EPS are not like those of conventional fine aggregates, this study is focussed on the use of EPS as an additive in concrete while keeping other composition (sand and granite) constant. Expanded polystyrene was milled, the bulk density of EPS was 10.57kg/m3 and particle size distributions were determined. Engineering properties of expanded polystyrene concrete were determined in accordance with BS 8110-2:1985. The result showed that the amount of expanded polystyrene incorporated in concrete influence the properties of hardened and fresh concrete. The compressive strengths of 17.07MPa with 5 % expanded polystyrene concrete at 28 days for example can be used as a lightweight concrete for partitioning in offices. Incorporating expanded polystyrene granules in a concrete matrix can produce lightweight polystyrene aggregate concrete of various densities, compressive strengths, flexural strengths and tensile strengths. In conclusion, this reduces environmental pollution, reduction in valuable landfill space and also for sustainability in construction companies.