Advisory Center for Affordable Settlements & Housing

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Document Type General
Publish Date 14/09/2017
Author Updating by ACASH is in process
Published By http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/j/ajetm
Edited By Tabassum Rahmani
Uncategorized

Use of Expanded Polystyrene Technology and Materials Recycling for Building Construction in Kenya

A growing population in Kenya demands expansion of housing facilities. Traditional burnt bricks, quarry stones, timber, and corrugated iron sheets remain the most commonly used construction materials in Kenya. Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) material derived from the distillation process of crude oil and is 100% recyclable, is an alternative construction material. Use of EPS material reduces the rate at which natural materials such as wood and stones are extracted from the environment, hence promoting sustainable development. EPS buildings are fast to construct, cost saving and have thermal characteristics that are suitable for areas with extreme weather conditions. Structurally, EPS materials have performed well for both low and high-rise buildings of up to ten floors. In Kenya, lack of governing standards and unawareness amongst industry players has hampered adaptability of EPS building materials. This paper discusses the potential of EPS as a construction material in Kenya. It is concluded that Kenya needs to develop strategies to promote use of environmentally friendly EPS materials.

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