Technological advances in the development of building materials are helping introduce a range of new high performance products to the construction industry. Polystyrene blocks, for instance, are increasingly being used in building construction thanks to their proven high compressive strength.
Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) stands out as a building product for its high resistance to compressive stresses, which correspondingly increase with higher density.
Numerous studies have confirmed the high compressive strength of expanded polystyrene. Specifically, the findings of a 2013 study on the compressive strength of expanded polystyrene via axial loading published in the International Journal of Engineering Research and Development, revealed that “the strength of an expanded polystyrene slab is good and can carry both the dead and live load of a building, which is basically what every building should strive for”.
These findings also indicated that the compressive strength of expanded polystyrene blocks either through axial loading or crushing was high, proving the suitability of the material for the construction industry.
Though expanded polystyrene has a high compressive strength, it’s extremely lightweight, allowing for easy handling onsite.
While building materials should have adequate compressive strength to withstand day-to-day loads, going too high can mean a dramatic cost increase for very little gain.
