The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) will adopt “geofoam” technology as an alternative embankment material for infrastructure projects.
Geofoam is a large block made from expanded polystyrene (EPS) with enormous compressive strength that makes it ideal as a construction material.
“Successful research studies of DPWH Bureau of Research and Standards led the decision to utilize geofoam which was proven to be a very durable, lightweight, cost-efficient, and time-saving,” said DPWH Undersecretary Dimas S. Soguilon.
A Department Order identifying the standard specification of geofoam that will be used in embankment projects has been issued. DPWH field offices may integrate geofoam technology until September 2022.
“The need is growing for alternative solutions to conventional embankments that take huge amount time to be accomplished especially during rainy season. We hope that with geofoam, these projects will be delivered to the public on time, said Undersecretary Soguilon.
Other than geofoam, DPWH also utilizes other nonconventional solutions for projects which includes the use of coconet materials for slope protection, and gabions as both slope protection and river control projects.