Avaliação físico-mecânica de concretos leves Produzidos com Poliestireno Expandido (EPS): perspectivas para seu potencial uso estrutural

Abstract

This study evaluated the physical and mechanical behavior of lightweight concretes produced with expanded polystyrene beads (EPS), focusing on density reduction and on the assessment of their potential structural application. Four mixtures were produced: one reference concrete without EPS and three mixtures with partial replacement of conventional aggregates by EPS, aiming at reduced specific weights. The concretes were evaluated in the fresh state through the slump test and, in the hardened state, in terms of dry specific weight, water absorption, and axial compressive strength at 7 and 28 days. The results showed that the incorporation of EPS significantly reduced the dry specific weight of the concretes, from 24.09 kN/m³ in the reference mixture to 18.36 kN/m³, 18.05 kN/m³, and 15.66 kN/m³ in the modified mixtures. However, this reduction was accompanied by a decrease in compressive strength, which at 28 days decreased from 64.35 MPa in the reference concrete to 20.52 MPa, 14.87 MPa, and 10.07 MPa in the EPS concretes. An increase in water absorption and difficulties in homogenizing the EPS beads were also observed, with a tendency for concentration in specific regions of the specimens. It is concluded that EPS has potential as a density-reducing material in lightweight concretes, however, its structural application requires greater technological control, especially regarding mixing procedures, segregation, compaction, and uniform distribution of the lightweight aggregate.