Geofoam EPS
Materials used in construction engineering are changing rapidly. Structural steel and concrete are stronger than even just a few years ago. And new “geosynthetic” materials such as cellular plastics are being used more frequently, and with greater results, than ever before.
As part of this evolution, the use of EPS geofoam in engineered construction is growing fast and furious. But just what exactly IS geofoam? What does it DO? And how is it USED?
In civil engineering applications, the use of EPS typically translates to benefits to construction schedules and savings in overall cost of construction. EPS is unaffected by occurring weather and is environmentally safe. Its service life is comparable to other conventional construction materials and will retain its physical properties under engineered conditions of use.
“EPS Geofoam” describes low-density cellular plastic foam solids used in geotechnical applications such as lightweight fill for construction on soft ground, for slope stabilization, and retaining wall or abutment backfill; as well as for roadway and runway subgrade insulation and foundation insulation.
Polystyrene is the main polymer used to produce EPS geofoam. Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) geofoam is created in a two-stage, molded bead process. EPS geofoam is typically produced in blocks that can be cut into various shapes and sizes to suit specific projects. It can also be produced in a range of densities to meet varying project needs.
Doing More with Less
The philosophy of “less is more” has permeated almost every facet of modern life – construction engineering notwithstanding. EPS geofoam is a perfect fit, giving designers a unique product that works in conjunction with other, more traditional materials to solve construction problems with unprecedented strength and flexibility.
EPS geofoam enables engineers, architects, builders and other industry professionals to design by function, that is, to focus on the key geosynthetic functions they’re looking for in an particular project, then select the best combination of products to achieve the goals most cost efficiently.
EPS geofoam provides several unique functions not available with other types of geosynthetic materials. This multi-functionality replaces the need for many different products to achieve the desired results, making EPS geofoam highly cost effective.
At the same time, EPS geofoam products work very well as a complementary resource, with EPS geofoam-based composites and new synergies enabling end users to design with even greater flexibility and more options, not to mention unique results that would not be otherwise attainable.
EPS geofoam products help reduce and absorb the impacts of naturally occurring forces such as gravity and earthquakes rather than trying to strengthen or stiffen a structure to resist the forces. By working with, rather than against these forces, EPS geofoam gives engineers more flexible solutions to construction challenges.
