Taguchi-Based Analysis of EPAC Constituents Affecting Natural Self-Healing in Non-Structural Concrete

Abstract

Expanded Polystyrene Aggregate Concrete (EPAC) offers reduced structural density and carbon footprint while maintaining acceptable mechanical performance, making it a promising material for sustainable, seismic-resistant construction. This study investigates the natural self-healing behavior of EPAC, a largely unexplored area, using the Taguchi method to analyze the effects of EPS percentage of total aggregate volume (60%, 70%, 80%), cement content (410, 515, 594 kg/m 3 ), and W/C (0.45, 0.5, 0.55). A novel method developed in this study, quantified a maximum healing efficiency of 67.5%, with results indicating that higher EPS content enhances healing due to its elastic nature. Compressive strength, thermal conductivity, and density were also assessed to validate the method’s reliability. The findings demonstrate the utility of the Taguchi method in construction materials research by reducing experimental workload while maintaining analytical depth. The proposed healing assessment method opens new avenues for evaluating durability in EPS-based concretes, supporting future innovations in sustainable construction.