Analysis of Substitution of Coarse Aggregate by Eps and Its Application in the Production of Hollow Blocks

The work aims to analyze the effect of partial replacement of coarse aggregate by expanded polystyrene (EPS) in the production of hollow blocks, a type of concrete block. Substitution levels, by volume, of 0% (reference), 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, and 25% were tested. The following tests were performed: granulometric composition, specific mass, unit mass, surface analysis tests, absorption, mass determination, dimensional analysis and compressive strength. Regarding surface analysis, the hollow blocks showed satisfactory results. As for water absorption, the blocks performed similarly to the reference blocks with small variations in the results. As for its mass and dimensional variability, the insertion of EPS did not promote significant changes. All specimens with substituted EPS contents met the requirements regarding the blocks' compressive strength. From an environmental point of view, the replacement of EPS meets the requirements of the block standard, contributing to its removal from the environment.

Keywords:
Expanded Polystyrene; Performance; compressive strength; Environmental Aggregates