CEMENT COMPOSITE WITH EPS BEADS

AN EXPERIMENTAL ANALYSIS USING AGGREGATES FROM THE CENTRAL REGION OF THE STATE OF MINAS GERAIS

Abstract

Lightweight concrete with expanded polystyrene corresponds to a cementitious composite of reduced density, in use in building elements submitted to small efforts. The aim of this study is to investigate the characteristics and properties of the material, including compressive strength and water absorption. Four mixes of concrete were prepared, using pozzolanic Portland cement, medium river sand and gravel with a maximum dimension of 12.5 mm from the central region of the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil. The amount of expanded polystyrene beads, ranging in size from 0.6 mm to 2.36 mm, was established based on the 25%, 50% and 75% substitutions of the volume of coarse aggregate in the dry and loose state. The material proportions on blends was determined by means of experimental dosage and subsequent water-cement ratio adjustment. Concrete samples with expanded polystyrene beads exhibited a reduction in compressive strength and a higher water absorption when compared to conventional concrete. Although lightweight concrete shows less strength and less durability, the possibility of using the composite material in constructive elements subject to small efforts and in regions of low aggressiveness stands out.

Keywords: cementitious composite, lightweight concrete, expanded polystyrene.