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Is EPS concrete strong and durable enough as classic concrete?
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1 Reply
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The answer to this question is not a simple “yes” or “no”, because it depends on what the concrete is used for!
EPS concrete has lower compressive strength from classic, standard concrete. That means yes not intended for load-bearing structural elements that can withstand heavy loads, such as columns, beams, or building foundations. If you need primary load-bearing capacity, classic reinforced concrete is still your choice.
However, for the applications for which it is designed, EPS concrete is very strong and durable.Its main purpose is to be excellent insulation and lightweight fillingFor these roles, its strength is more than sufficient. Think of it as the smart “lightweight” brother of classic concrete.
Here's why EPS concrete is durable and reliable for its intended purpose:
- Resistance to external influences: Due to its structure and reduced water absorption, EPS concrete is highly resistant to moisture and freeze-thaw cycles, which is crucial for our climate in Croatia. This means that it will not deteriorate or disintegrate under the influence of weather conditions.
- Long lifespan: If properly installed and used for its intended purpose, EPS concrete has a very long lifespan. It is not a material that will wear out quickly or lose its properties.
- Adjustable strength: There are different mixtures and strength classes of EPS concrete. The ratio of cement to polystyrene can be varied to achieve the optimum strength for a specific application. So you can get exactly the strength you need, without unnecessary over-dimensioning.
Where is it used then? We most often find it in:
- Insulation layers of floors and roofs
- Lightweight fillings of interfloor structures
- Non-structural partition walls
- Leveling layers
So, although EPS concrete is not a replacement for classic structural concrete in all situations, it is Extremely strong and durable material for its specific purposes, providing excellent insulation and reduced weight, making it a valuable choice in modern construction.
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