Use of EPS formwork blocks in 4-storey apartment buildings. Risk- and vulnerability analysis

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to make a risk- and vulnerability analysis for the use of EPS formwork blocks in 4-storey apartment buildings. This abstract presents an ongoing study. EPS is defined as combustible insulation by the Norwegian building regulations [1], which limits the preaccepted use to low-rise buildings of maximum 2-3 floors (fire class 1). Use of EPS in 4-storey buildings (fire class 2) is thus a deviation from the regulations. Thermomur is formwork blocks of Jackopor, which is made of expanded polystyrene (EPS), together with binders of high density polyethylene (HDPE) and polypropylene (PP). The Thermomur-elements are piled on top of each other and filled with a core of concrete which is reinforced. The building system is used for outer- and inner walls.