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Technology Associates
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Forensic Engineering Experts - Ph (800) 358-9909 - Fax (888) 358-9901
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GEOFOAM |
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Geofoam is the term used for any closed-cell foam used in a geotechnical (on- or in-ground) application. The familiar white foam, expanded polystyrene (EPS), is the geofoam material of choice for most applications. There has been a rapid increase in the use of EPS geofoam in recent years but this has also led to an increase in failures due to in large part to the inexperience of both designers and material suppliers. Thus there is a need for consultation services with persons highly experienced in all aspects of geofoam design and construction.
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Expertise |
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Questions Answered |
We have unique experience with EPS geofoam as a result of:
- Authorship of the only English-language book on the subject
- Participation in two National Cooperative Highway Research Projects involving the use of EPS geofoam for roads
- Extensive independent research, publication, and lecturing related to EPS geofoam
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Through scientific analysis, we can help you answer pertinent questions such as:
- Was a proper EPS density selected by the designer?
- Were the project specifications and quality-assurance protocols adequate to ensure delivery of the proper material?
- Did the EPS molder supply material in accordance with the project specifications?
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Past Case Examples |
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Contractor Not Liable for Failed EPS Fill:
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EPS Molder Liable for Material Not Meeting Specifications:
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A construction contractor rebuilt a road using blocks of EPS geofoam as specified in the construction documents. Soon after construction the road began to settle excessively and the contractor was sued by the road's owner (a local municipality). We were retained by the contractor and were able to successfully prove that the failure occurred due to a flawed engineering design, and the contractor was not at fault for the unacceptable performance.
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An Interstate highway was rebuilt using blocks of EPS geofoam. The material supplied was deficient and the EPS molder claimed that the owner (a state DOT) had issued a faulty specification. We were retained by the DOT and were successful in demonstrating not only that the specification was reasonable, but that the deficiencies in the supplied material were due solely to improper manufacturing processes by the EPS molder.
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