Emerging Trends in Failures Involving EPS-Block Geofoam Fills

• Published in: Journal of performance of constructed facilities 2010-08, Vol.24 (4), p.365-372
• Main Author: Horvath, John S
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Applied sciences; Building failures (cracks, physical changes, etc.); Buildings. Public works; Durability. Pathology. Repairing. Maintenance; Exact sciences and technology; Geotechnics; Materials; Miscellaneous; Plastics; TECHNICAL PAPERS
• ISSN: 0887-3828; 1943-5509
• DOI: 10.1061/(ASCE)CF.1943-5509.0000114

Expanded polystyrene (EPS) is a closed-cell polymeric (“plastic”) foam that, in its generic block-molded form, has seen increasing use worldwide as a cellular geosynthetic in the geofoam category. This growth is due to the fact that block-molded EPS is unique among geofoam products for the large and diverse variety of functional applications for which it is technically well suited and relatively economical as well as for its proven long-term in-ground durability. However, as often happens when there is rapid growth in a technology based on a generic commodity product such as block-molded EPS, its use outstrips the acquisition of critically important technical knowledge by end users. This can result in inefficient and even incorrect use that can lead to failures in project applications. There is evidence that this cause and effect is currently occurring in the United States at least for some widely used EPS-block geofoam functional applications such as lightweight fill for road construction. This paper contains a summary of the technical issues that are significant factors in the observed failures of EPS-block geofoam fills, with an emphasis on emerging trends observed in recent years. This presentation is intended to provide critical information for design professionals, material suppliers, construction contractors, and owners alike so that they are aware of the key technical issues that require careful attention when designing EPS-block geofoam fills in practice.