Understanding The Performance of Expanded Polystyrene (Eps) Towards Sustainable Housing Construction
Understanding The Performance of Expanded Polystyrene (Eps) Towards Sustainable Housing Construction
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Date
2021
Authors
DODO, Mansir BADAMASI, A.A. KABIR, F.A.
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Abstract
Goal 11 of the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) mandates delivering buildings utilising sustainable
materials. An emerging material used to fulfil this goal is Expanded Polystyrene (EPS), a thermo- plastic
material whose end-product is a meshed panel that can be moulded into different shapes and sizes used in
constructing buildings. Although the use of EPS is relatively new in construction (as against its use in
industrial packaging), it is attributed to having commendable sustainable properties. Despite its
commendable characteristics, studies on EPS predominantly cover its technical and mechanical aspects
(from the views of professional/experts). In a bid to enhance the appreciation of the material, this study
seeks to investigate the performance of EPS in Citec Mbdra Mount Pleasant Estate Abuja relative to
occupant's satisfaction. A total of 57 occupants were identified from Citec Construction Ltd to being
involved in constructing the howses they occupy and thus have some experience on the use of EPS. While
data is collected using a survey with the aid of a questionnaire, data is analysed both descriptively and
inferentially using IBM SPSS Statistics 23 and M.S. Excel using frequencies, Mean Score and Relative
Satisfaction Index (RSI). Results reveal that majority of the respondents are adults over 26 years of age and
have lived in the houses fo.r ovpr 3 years. Furthermore, out of the 6 factors studied, while maintainability is
the only factor thaf leans towairabccupants being satisfied with the performance of EPS (with a Mean Score
of 3.56), hot weather insulationjs also the only factor that leans towards occupants being dissatisfied with the
performance of EPS (with a Mean Score of 2.47). The other factors leaned towards occupants being 'unsure'.
It was found that the satisfaction of occupants residing in Citec Mbora Estate in terms of the physical
performance of EPS (maintainability and aesthetics) is more than the satisfaction in terms of general
insulation performance (heat, cold and sound). Future research can look deeper into other factors that cause
satisfaction (such as cost, frequency, and culture of maintenance of EPS) of the houses built with EPS in
Citec Mbora Mount Pleasant Estate. Also, environmental factors that affect insulation can be covered in
future studies However, those who know about EPS confirms its flexibility, quick construction time, and its
environmental friendliness all herald a great future for the applications of these advanced building products
in the Nigerian construction industry, but EPS is not readily available like other conventional materials
which makes its application challenging to professionals of the built environment.
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Department of Building, Ahmadu Bello University Zaria Nigeria