Application of expanded polystyrene (EPS) in buildings and constructions: A review

ABSTRACT Expanded polystyrene (EPS) is one of the building material capable of enhancing the design and structural integrity of the building. Since its recognition as conventional insulating material in 1950s, EPS has been experiencing swift progress in other new implementations. Currently, EPS is utilized in many building structures owing to its sustainability benefit and improvement in terms of energy efficiency, durability, and indoor environmental quality. This article provides an overview on the application of EPS as aggregates in lightweight concrete, decorative tiles and molding, panel application (structural insulated panels (SIPs) and composite SIPs), and embankment backfilling. Also, this article attempts to describe the properties of EPS in terms of fire behavior, mechanical properties, chemical resistant, water and moisture absorption, and their toxicity to the human and environment. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 47529. Expanded polystyrene produced from polystyrene beads via expansion process is utilized in applications such as aggregate in lightweight concrete, decorative tiles and moulding, panel application (structural insulated panels (SIPs) and composite SIPs) and embankment backfilling.