Applications of Expanded Polystyrene and its Cost-time Advantage on Building Construction (Case study)

Abstract Background Volatility in construction material costs and the continued reliance on labor-intensive, time-consuming conventional building practices present significant challenges to the construction industry, necessitating the adoption of alternative materials and efficient construction systems. Purpose This study aimed to evaluate the technical performance, cost efficiency, and construction time implications of using expanded polystyrene (EPS) panels as a primary building construction material. Methods A model two-story building incorporating EPS-based construction panels was analyzed and systematically compared with a conventional construction system in terms of cost, construction duration, mechanical performance, and durability-related properties. Results The EPS construction system demonstrated substantial advantages, achieving cost savings of 30.9% and construction time reductions of 45.7% relative to conventional methods. Mechanical testing showed compressive strengths of 9.3 MPa and 17.1 MPa for EPS panels with densities of 15 kg/m³ and 18 kg/m³, respectively, surpassing the performance of traditional hollow concrete block wall systems. Corresponding flexural strengths were 30.2 kN and 41.5 kN, indicating satisfactory load-bearing capacity for low-rise structures. EPS panels also exhibited low water absorption and self-extinguishing behavior, enhancing durability and fire safety. However, dimensional instability and susceptibility to shrinkage at elevated temperatures (~ 70°C) were identified as key limitations. Conclusions EPS panels offer a cost-effective, time-efficient, and structurally viable alternative for building construction, provided that thermal and dimensional constraints are adequately addressed. Future studies should focus on improving the thermal stability and long-term dimensional performance of EPS-based construction systems.