Emerging Trends in Failures Involving EPS-Block Geofoam Fills
Publication: Journal of Performance of Constructed Facilities
Volume 24, Issue 4
Abstract
Expanded polystyrene (EPS) is a closed-cell polymeric (“plastic”) foam that, in its generic block-molded form, has seen increasing use worldwide as a cellular geosynthetic in the geofoam category. This growth is due to the fact that block-molded EPS is unique among geofoam products for the large and diverse variety of functional applications for which it is technically well suited and relatively economical as well as for its proven long-term in-ground durability. However, as often happens when there is rapid growth in a technology based on a generic commodity product such as block-molded EPS, its use outstrips the acquisition of critically important technical knowledge by end users. This can result in inefficient and even incorrect use that can lead to failures in project applications. There is evidence that this cause and effect is currently occurring in the United States at least for some widely used EPS-block geofoam functional applications such as lightweight fill for road construction. This paper contains a summary of the technical issues that are significant factors in the observed failures of EPS-block geofoam fills, with an emphasis on emerging trends observed in recent years. This presentation is intended to provide critical information for design professionals, material suppliers, construction contractors, and owners alike so that they are aware of the key technical issues that require careful attention when designing EPS-block geofoam fills in practice.
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Acknowledgments
This paper would not have been possible without the generous input and sharing of knowledge by many people throughout the world since the writer began researching EPS as a civil engineering material in 1987. However, all assessments and opinions expressed herein are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the views of others.
References
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Information
Published In
Journal of Performance of Constructed Facilities
Volume 24 • Issue 4 • August 2010
Pages: 365 - 372
Copyright
© 2010 ASCE.
History
Received: Nov 8, 2009
Accepted: Dec 28, 2009
Published online: Jul 15, 2010
Published in print: Aug 2010
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