The Managing Director of Monumental Works Nigeria Limited, Mr. Olufemi Ogundare, has said that construction cost can be reduced and housing delivery increased with Expended Polystyrene (EPS) technology.
Expanded PolyStyrene (EPS) is a white foam plastic material produced from solid beads of polystyrene. It is primarily used for packaging and insulation, among others. It is a closed cell, rigid foam material produced from: Styrene, which forms the cellular structure.
According to Engineered Foam Product website, EPS is produced from a mixture of about 90-95percent polystyrene and 5-10percent gaseous blowing agent, most commonly pentane.
Ogundare, an architect in an interview, explained that EPS technology entails the construction of houses from ready-made EPS foams sandwiched between a galvanised steel wire mesh that is plastered on both sides with concrete.
The technology, he said, has the capacity to bridge the country’s huge housing gap, noting that with the tech, it does not take time to complete the project as it is budget-friendly.
According to him, the technology was introduced into Nigeria’s construction industry about six years ago but has not gained wide traction despite its numerous benefits.
He described the technology as an alternative to sand and cement blocks, saying, it is impregnable and bulletproof because it is built with concrete. He further mentioned that it is cost and environment friendly. “It is cost effective and suits the country’s climatic condition. It is an ideal choice for green buildings,” he stressed.
While he advised Nigerians to embrace the technology; saying, it is well used in developed and some developing countries.
