This specification presents the types, physical properties, and dimensions of rigid cellular polystyrene (RCPS) intended for use as geofoam. This specification, however, does not address the layout, placement, and workmanship for proper installation and performance of the geofoams. RCPS geofoams shall be formed by the expansion of polystyrene resin beads or granules in a molding process (EPS), or by the expansion of polystyrene base resin in an extrusion process (XPS). They may also be manufactured with reprocessed polystyrene foam (regrind). The RCPS geofoams shall meet combustibility and curing requirements and, when tested, shall adhere to physical property requirements such as dimensions and density, compressive resistance, flexural strength, and oxygen index. Final products should also meet surface damage, volume damage, and UV degradation limits.

1.1 This specification covers the types, physical properties, and dimensions of rigid cellular polystyrene intended for use as geofoam.

1.2 This specification does not cover the layout, placement, and workmanship for proper installation and performance of rigid cellular polystyrene geofoam.

1.3 Rigid cellular polystyrene geofoam covered by this specification may need protection from certain chemicals, environmental exposure, and concentrated loads. Additional design considerations may include thermal conductivity and buoyancy. Guidelines regarding these end-use considerations are included in Appendix X1.

1.4 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system are not necessarily exact equivalents; therefore, to ensure conformance with the standard, each system shall be used independently of the other, and values from the two systems shall not be combined.

1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.