Investigation into the Effects of Polystyrene Beads on the Properties of Self-Compacting Concrete

Abstract

This study investigates the effects of incorporating expanded polystyrene (EPS) cork granules into self-compacting concrete (SCC) to produce lightweight concrete (LWC). It incorporates different percentages (0%, 1.5%, 3%, 5%, and 10%) of expanded polystyrene (EPS) cork granules as a partial cement replacement. It then evaluates the effect of the expanded polystyrene (EPS) cork granules on the bulk density, indirect compressive strength, and tensile strength of the modified concretes. It performs the Slump Flow + T50 test to evaluate the fresh concrete properties and determine its diffusion diameter and flow time. Except for the mixture incorporated with 10% cork, the flow diameter for all mixtures is within the specified range. Concretes with higher polystyrene content have higher viscosity and smaller diffusion diameter. The L-Box test assessed the passing ability capability of concrete when poured into densely reinforced sections. Except for the concrete containing 10% cork, all mixtures exhibited self-leveling capability within the specified limit. The V-Funnel test showed that the concrete flow characteristics were within the EFNARC limit, although the value for the concrete with 10% expanded polystyrene (EPS) cork granules approached the upper limit. The total density of the hardened concrete with 10% expanded polystyrene (EPS) cork granules decreased by approximately 47.6%. However, its compressive strength at 28 days decreased considerably by approximately 99%. Similarly, the indirect tensile strength of concrete containing 5% expanded polystyrene (EPS) cork granules decreased after 28 days. The testing device could not register the concrete’s resistance because of its weak tensile strength. The modulus of elasticity of the concrete with 10% cork decreased by about 95%. In conclusion, expanded polystyrene (EPS) cork granules self-compacting LWCs can be used for non-load-bearing construction partitions. This approach promotes environmental sustainability by reducing the accumulation of cork (polystyrene) waste.