Expanded polystyrene geofoam in pavement construction

Expanded polystyrene (EPS) has offered solutions to many civil engineering problems associated with pavement construction. Issues, such as the construction of pavements on low bearing capacity subgrade soils (such as peats and clays), or in regions with severe winters, and the construction of pavements over underground services, have all been overcome with the use of EPS geofoam. This material is used for many pavement applications. These include the use of EPS geofoam as a lightweight fill, as a thermal insulator, a vibration dampener, and for the protection of underground services. Unfortunately, there are a number of barriers that are stopping the use of EPS geofoam from becoming standard worldwide. More has to be done to develop and proliferate technical knowledge to avoid the inefficient, and even the incorrect use of EPS geofoam. There is also room for research in the development of new and innovative applications for the use of EPS geofoam, and for the development of updated standards and test procedures. To facilitate research in these areas, this review paper discusses the design considerations, limitations, and quality assurance procedures for the use of EPS in pavement applications, while paying special attention to the areas of weakness for which recommendations are made. Furthermore, this review paper details historic case studies in which EPS was used, as well as discusses the mechanical properties of EPS, and, finally, its manufacturing process.