Utilização de poliestireno expandido (EPS) na construção civil – uma alternativa sustentável

The construction industry currently offers a wide range of materials and technologies applicable to engineering projects. With the growing need to create and develop energy-efficient buildings, Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) stands out as an essential component. A key characteristic of EPS—widely known by this acronym—is its versatility within the construction sector. It is frequently used to fill voids in masonry and, notably, in prefabricated panels and slabs. This article aims to examine and present the use of EPS in construction, focusing on infill masonry while considering its qualities, limitations, and characteristics. Thanks to its remarkable insulation properties, EPS provides exceptional thermal comfort, potentially reducing or even eliminating the need for climate control systems and thereby minimizing annual electricity costs. Furthermore, regarding the issue of waste generated by EPS, this research also addresses alternatives for the reuse and recycling of the material within the construction industry.