Enhancing the Use of Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) for Lightweight Concrete Wall Panels

Abstract

Concrete is widely used in for construction purposes due to many advantageous properties. Depending on the density, concrete can be categorized as either conventional or lightweight. However, incorporating sustainable and eco-friendly elements like Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) can reduce the weight of concrete resulting in construction material. The main objective of this research is to investigate the effects of the inclusion of EPS towards the physical characteristics of concrete such as compressive strength, flexural strength, density and water absorption. This research also aim to analyze the soundproofing capabilities of wall panels produced using EPS. The study focuses on evaluating percentages (10%, 15% and 20%) of EPS as aggregates in terms of their impact on mechanical properties, physical properties and soundproofing qualities, in lightweight concrete. A total of 36 cube samples measuring 100 mm x 100 mm x 100 mm were prepared for testing at both 7 day and 28-day curing periods. In addition, 12 wall panel samples measuring 100 mm x 100 mm x 500 mm and another four wall panel samples measuring 600 mm x 600 mm x 40mm for analysis. Findings of the research indicate that the desired targets were met for water absorption (10%) density (15%) and soundproof performance (20%). During the 28-day strength test, the compressive strength decreased by 21.86%, 30.57% and 35.56% when replacing 10%, 15% and 20% of the material respectively. Lightweight concrete achieved a value of 19.45 MPa with a replacement of only 10% EPS. However, the samples, with a replacement of 15% and 20% did not reach this compressive strength level. This study demonstrates that EPS can be effectively utilized in applications. There was a reduction for the flexural strength ranging from 13.42% to 27.89% compared to the control mix when replacing with EPS at rates of 10%, 15% and 20%. This study succeeded in producing the novel discovery of the use of EPS in contributing to reducing overall structure weight, which in turn helps decrease energy consumption during transportation and construction processes.