A review of expanded polystyrene (EPS) properties, performance and new applications

Conference · Sat Nov 01 04:00:00 EST 1997

OSTI ID:543453

Greeley, T R ^[1]

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1. BASF Corp., Mount Olive, NJ (United States)

For over thirty years expanded polystyrene (EPS) insulation products have been utilized and accepted by the construction industry as cost effective insulation for roof, wall and foundation applications. A discussion is provided explaining insulated concrete form (ICF) systems and structural insulated panels (SIPs) and how the properties of EPS foam are suited to meet the unique requirements of these systems. In addition ASTM standard Specification for Rigid, Cellular Polystyrene (RCPS) Thermal Insulation (C 578) is discussed. It provides the specifications for the minimum performance which can be expected from various classifications of polystyrene foam. Geosynthetics, products used below grade, including geomembranes, geotextiles and geogrids have been developed over the past twenty years. Now Geofoam EPS, a lightweight fill material, is available to assist civil engineers in stabilizing weak soil conditions in a variety of below grade applications. A brief history of the development and applications for Geofoam is provided.

• OSTI ID: 543453
• Report Number(s): CONF-970582--
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

32 ENERGY CONSERVATION, CONSUMPTION, AND UTILIZATION
36 MATERIALS SCIENCE
BUILDINGS
FOAMS
NONDESTRUCTIVE TESTING
POLYSTYRENE
SPECIFICATIONS
THERMAL INSULATION
USES