EPS Geofoam Blocks

EPS Geofoam Blocks

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  EPS GEOFOAM BLOCKS DrK M Soni, ADG (Retd.), CPWD, New Delhi
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  EPS Geofoam Blocks •EPS stands for Expanded Polystyrene • Consists of foam as per ASTM D6817, “Standard Specification for Rigid Cellular Polystyrene Geofoam.” This standard covers the material properties most often required for Geofoam. • Classified as EPS12, EPS15, EPS19, EPS22, EPS29, EPS39 and EPS46 for Geofoam blocks.
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  EPS Geofoam Blocks •Have density varying from @ 12 to 46 kg/cum (12, 15, 18, 22, 29, 38, 46). Accordingly they are classified as EPS12, EPS15, EPS19, EPS22, EPS29, EPS 39, EPS46) • Have Insulation properties. R values varying from0.63 to 0.90 at 25 degree F, 0.60 to 0.86 at 40 degree F and 0.56 to 0.78 at 75 degree F • Compressive resistance @1% deformation varies from 15 to 128 kPa and flexural strength from 69 to 517 kPa. Water absorption is 2 to 4%.
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  EPS Geofoam • Geofoamis a cellular polymeric material, manufactured in block form of very low density as per ASTM D 6817 “Standard Specification for Rigid, Cellular Polystyrene Geofoam.”
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  Geofoam Blocks • Standardsize is 1.2m widthx2.4m to 4.8m length , thickness 25mm to 914mm (1” to 36”) • Other sizes and fabrication can be provided by the manufacturer • Fire retardant but combustible at certain temperature (@75 degree)
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  EPS Geofoam Blocks •Gets affected by UV rays. If stored, outside, should be protected. • Negligible effect during short term due to Storage.
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  Applications • EPS geofoamblocks can be successfully used in stairs, seating of class rooms, lecture halls, auditoriums, theatres and stadia
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  Another advantage ofsuch blocks is that they can be cut in desired shapes to install the services. During maintenance period, they can be repaired easily as RCC steps are difficult to be repaired
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  Laying of EPSGeofoam Blocks • When used in the steps, the blocks should be laid as per the requirements of the risers and depth. In case depth is more, required number of blocks can be laid. Thereafter, wire mesh should be used over the blocks to tie them, to keep them in position and also for better bonding with the concrete being laid over the blocks. Small thickness of concrete should then be laid and flooring provided as per the architectural requirements.
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  Thanks for attending DrK M Soni, ADG (Retd.), CPWD, New Delhi Also available on youtube: KRISHNA MURARI Soni