EPS

Geofoam is a type of expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam that is used in broader applications of highway and traffic development. Geofoam is regarded as a “soil alternative,” because it is used in foundation engineering as fill material where the soil is too loose or soft to support the road. Geofoam is very lightweight and only weighs 1 to 2 pounds per cubic foot (16 to 32 kilograms per cubic meter) and large equipment is typically not needed to maneuver it on a job site. It typically comes in the form of foam blocks that can be cut to size and picked up by easily by hand. It can also be constructed in limited driving areas and can be assembled in poor weather conditions. Geotechnical engineers use geofoam in road construction for embankments, side-hill fill, median barriers, bridge abutments, and as general fill for roadways and parking. It can also be used in structural elements for foundation or flood control levees as well as architectural elements such as landscaping and plaza decks. One of the main benefits of Geofoam besides its lightweight design is its simplicity.

Geofoam dramatically cuts down on the time spent laying the foundation in construction projects especially in regions where highways are sensitive to weight or traffic congestion may be a problem. Due to it’s lightweight and cellular structure, Geofoam can be punctured easily so appropriate cover fill should be used to avoid this problem. It can also dissolve in gasoline and proper care must be given to ensure that none of these solvents or vapors are near the material or present in the soil. Proper covering and good engineering will reduce the chance of this problem from happening. Geofoam has no incidence of being consumed by insects either. It possess no nutritive properties to any living organism, but because of it’s comb like structure, insects and termites have been found to nest in it when it has been used in wall and wood structures as a thermal material or when structures are located by nearby woods. Evidence of insects and termites nesting in highway projects has not been found. Consulting with the manufacturer can help prevent insect and termite infestations if Geofoam is being used as thermal insulation in buildings.

Geofoam is expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam used to combat soil problems in geotechnical engineering. It has a very low density and good insulation properties. Mainly used in construction applications, geofoam has been shown to increase production time because of its lightweight and easy maneuverability. Geofoam can also be recycled, making it more attractive to developers seeking sustainable engineering. It is frequently referred to as a type of “eco foam.”

Geofoam is used by engineers for slope stabilization to decrease gravitation forces and in embankments because it implements light loads on the foundation. State DOTs have been implementing the use of geofoam in projects where there are significant time constraints. States such as New York and Alabama have been using geofoam for its slope stabilization properties and for the financial savings and time reduction. With the growth of its use in highway construction, it is estimated that by October 2011 all States will have evaluated geofoam as a lightweight fill alternative.

Geofoam is also used in construction of buildings with shallow foundations due to its frost protection properties. It also can be used in retaining structures and in civil construction because it reduces pressure and improves waterproofing. Use geofoam cautiously in areas where differential icing is a concern. Differential icing occurs in areas that experience below freezing temperatures creates patches of ice across the road. It’s a problem for drivers because they do not expect it in areas where most of the road seems to be free from ice. Geofoam has been located in areas where differential icing is a problem. However, engineers who use proper spacing methods with the geofoam can allow ground heat to flow through the structure and reduce the chance of differential icing.

Geofoam also needs to be stored properly against sunlight because it is prone to degradation if it exposed for an extended period of time. Research has found that covering geofoam with an opaque sheeting material while its being stored can prevent this degradation. Geofoam’s use in geotechnical engineering has been expanded over the years and with the growth of more environmentally friendly products the use is expected to increase.