Comparative Study of Cost of EPS with Regular Construction Materials

Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) core based composite panel system is a promising construction technique for mass housing projects as these buildings are light weight, energy efficient and can be easily handled and erected. EPS core based composite panels consist of a layer of self-extinguishing EPS sheet (of variable thickness; not less than 60mm) sandwiched between two layers of concrete/structural plaster with welded wire mesh reinforcement of 2.5mm to 3mm diameter. The wire mesh reinforcement on the two sides is interconnected using galvanized steel wire connectors of 34mm diameter, pierced completely through the polystyrene core for increasing the strength. The panels are finished on the site by applying mortar or by shotcreting on both sides. The use of EPS at the core reduces the weight of the structure thus making it seismically more efficient and also acts as insulation against thermal, acoustics and vibration. The aim of the study was to determine the cost of an EPS model and compare it with conventional method of construction i.e. RCC construction. The methodology involved construction of a 161 sq.m. (G+1) 2BHK house using EPS, measurement of wastes generated and costing several elements of the building. The result of this research proves that the use of EPS for residential building construction is more economical in the long run and that much benefit will accrue to the stake holders in the built environment.