Geofoam Applications in the Design and Construction of Highway Embankments

Abstract

This report is a comprehensive document that provides both state-of-the art knowledge and state-of-the-practice design guidance for the use of geofoam in roadway embankments and bridge approaches. This document presents a design guideline or procedure as well as an appropriate material and construction standard, both in AASHTO format. It is anticipated that this document will encourage greater and more consistent use of expanded polystyrene (EPS)-block geofoam in roadway embankments. The ultimate benefit of this is an optimization of both the technical performance as well as cost of EPS-block geofoam embankments. It is anticipated that designers will be more willing to consider EPS-block geofoam as an alternative for construction of embankments over soft ground using the design methodology and construction standard presented herein. The research has confirmed that EPS-block geofoam can provide a safe and economical solution to problems with construction of roadway embankments on soft soils. This report is designed to produce a single source of information on the present knowledge of geofoam usage in roadway embankments.