The Effect of Expanded Glass and Crushed Expanded Polystyrene on the Performance Characteristics of Lightweight Concrete

Abstract

This paper describes the production and performance characteristics of lightweight concrete (LWC) made from porous aggregates, such as expanded glass (EG), made from glass waste, and crushed expanded polystyrene waste (CEPW), obtained by crushing packaging waste from household appliances and ordinary Portland cement (OPC). During the study, the LWC density, thermal conductivity, compressive strength, bending strength, water absorption, deformations, composite structure, and freeze–thaw resistance were evaluated. By changing the amount of OPC and replacing part of the EG with CEPW, it was possible to reduce the thermal conductivity from 0.0977 to 0.0720 W/(mK). The presence of CEPW did not degrade compressive and bending strength or long-term water absorption of LWC. The influence of the amount of porous aggregates and OPC on the resistance to freezing and thawing was investigated by two methods. In one case, the freezing resistance was studied by the method of one-sided freezing of LWC structural indicators and, in the other case, the freezing resistance was determined by the decrease in compressive strength after 25, 100, and 200 freeze–thaw cycles. By modifying the structure with CEPW aggregate the durability of LWC products was increased and deformations were decreased.

Evaluation of the Effect of the Composition of the Foam Glass Concrete on Its Flammability and Moisture Characteristics

“…Currently, expanded polystyrene (EPS) is a widely used material in structures due to its rational properties, such as lightness, low thermal conductivity, moisture resistance, good chemical resistance, convenient processing, and low cost [16][17][18]. The studies have shown that recycled EPS waste, as well as manufactured EPS beads can be used as an aggregate for the development of lightweight cement-based thermal insulation composites [19][20][21].…”

“…Water absorption increased by 44.8% (from 5.7 to 8.3%). A previous study [19] examined the effect of LWA (EG and EPS) on composite properties. Using the EPS aggregate, the amount of deformation of the lightweight composite was reduced while the durability was increased.…”

Preparation and Compression Resistance of Lightweight Concrete Filled with Lightweight Calcium Carbonate Reinforced Expanded Polystyrene Foam

“…The core of the foaming method is the use of blowing agents, which can be chemical blowing agents or physical blowing agents. Chemical blowing agents create air bubbles in the concrete, while physical blowing agents introduce air bubbles through mechanical action [ 8 , 9 ]. Foamed lightweight concrete has advantages such as lightness, insulation, and environmental friendliness, but it also has disadvantages, such as a low compressive strength and uneven density [ 10 , 11 ].…”