Abstract
The engineering behavior of expanded polystyrene (EPS) was investigated for potential applications as an alternative geomaterial. Background on European experience with EPS in road construction over the past 20 years is provided. Tests were performed on EPS samples of two densities in constrained and unconfined deformation with loads applied in stress-controlled mode. Strength and deformation behavior and lateral stress coefficients for soils and EPS are compared. The results indicate that the engineering properties of EPS can be quantified in a manner similar to those of earth materials. For some applications that involve infrastructure rehabilitation and construction of transportation facilities. EPS offers unique advantages over soils. EPS needed for subsurface construction may contain recycled portions, and this would be an important environmental incentive for using EPS as a geomaterial.
| Original language | English (US) |
|---|---|
| Title of host publication | Transportation Research Record |
| Pages | 43-48 |
| Number of pages | 6 |
| Edition | 1418 |
| State | Published - Oct 1993 |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Civil and Structural Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering