The effect of foam polystyrene granules on cement composite properties

When a polystyrene granule is ripped out of foam cement concrete, the emerged “hole” closely repeats the structure of the granule and there is some polystyrene residue left in it. This proves the fact that foam cement concrete contact zone is stronger than the polystyrene granule material. When fine polystyrene granules are used, it disintegrates along the contact zone. Such composite has the lowest adhesion strength, however, it is stronger in comparison with a composite, made with different foam polystyrene granules, provided by better macrostructure. Strength and thermal conductivity of the composite depend on its density, the filler, its sort and amount used, and is defined by regression equations.