Study on Alternative Materials (Expanded Polystyrene and Glass Powder) for Construction

Abstract

Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) that was  used in the research work was in the form of ‘EPS Beads’  which were spherical in shape and size varied in between  6 mm to 8 mm in diameter. Beads were made up of pre 

extended Polystyrene balls. It is non-hydroscopic and does  not promptly absorb moisture from the atmosphere.  Expanded polystyrene exhibits number of outstanding  properties such as light weight, high strength, structural  stability, economy, insulation, aging resistance,  recyclability etc. Glass is completely recyclable since it is  not damaged by everyday use. An experimental program  was planned in which one lean concrete mix which did not  include any percentage of crushed glass powder and  Expanded Polystyrene beads. The other combination of  Mixes was prepared with different combinations of  crushed glass powder and Expanded Polystyrene beads  were. Cylindrical specimens, Cubes and beams were  casted to obtain different physical properties. Concrete  mixes with 0%, 10%, 20%, and 30% of crushed glass  powder as to replace some part of fine aggregate and 0%,  1.5%, 2.5%, and 3.5% of Expanded Polystyrene beads as  to replace some part of natural coarse aggregates. Suitable  quantities of super-plasticizer and materials are added to  improve the workability and stability. The cylindrical  specimens, cubes and beams will be tested after the  recommended curing period of 7 days and 28 days  respectively.