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Published: Građevinar 78 (2026) 8
Paper type: Original scientific paper
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Physical and mechanical properties of insulation boards with a significant recycled content for underfloor heating and cooling applications

Rene Kelemen, Domagoj Tkalčić, Bojan Milovanović, Marko Mudrinić

Abstract

This paper investigates the physical and mechanical properties of EPS insulation boards with different shares of recycled material from two sources (construction and packaging). The influence of recycled content on density, thermal conductivity, compressive strength at 10 % deformation, flexural strength, and tensile strength was analysed. The results show a decrease in density and mechanical properties, and an increase in thermal conductivity with increasing recycled content. A non-linear behaviour depending on material structure was observed. The results indicate the potential application of recycled EPS in underfloor heating and cooling systems, with limitations at higher recycled content.

Keywords
expanded polystyrene (EPS), recycled EPS, physical properties, mechanical properties, underfloor heating and cooling boards

HOW TO CITE THIS ARTICLE:

Kelemen, R., Tkalčić, D., Milovanović, B., Mudrinić, M.: Physical and mechanical properties of insulation boards with a significant recycled content for underfloor heating and cooling applications, GRAĐEVINAR, 78 (2026) 8, pp. 421-433, doi: https://doi.org/10.14256/JCE.4571.2026

OR:

Kelemen, R., Tkalčić, D., Milovanović, B., Mudrinić, M. (2026). Physical and mechanical properties of insulation boards with a significant recycled content for underfloor heating and cooling applications, GRAĐEVINAR, 78 (8), 421-433, doi: https://doi.org/10.14256/JCE.4571.2026

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This paper is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Authors:
IMG 5292
Rene Kelemen
University of Zagreb
Faculty of Civil Engineering
Tkalcic WEB
Domagoj Tkalčić
University of Zagreb
Faculty of Civil Engineering
Department of Materials
1 Bojan Milovanovic WEB
Bojan Milovanović
University of Zagreb,
Faculty of Civil Engineering,
Department of Materials

Marko Mudrinić
Plastform d.o.o., Croatia