Experimental and analytical study about the compressive behavior of eps sandwich panels

This study presents a detailed characterization of the behavior of EPS sandwich panels subject to normal load taking into account several variables. For that, two experimental programs were performed, leading to the proposal of an analytical formulation to estimate the maximum load resisted. The results obtained show how the height of the panel, the material properties, the position and configuration of the reinforcement may affect the resistance of panels. Special attention should be given to the eccentric position of the reinforcement, which may reduce considerably the maximum load resisted. Some recommendations about the optimum placement of the reinforcement are proposed.