Architectural Research in the Use of Foam Plastics

Abstract

This program of research is being sponsored by the Agency for International Development of the U. S. Department of State in the interest of exploring the possibility of using foam plastics as a basic structural material for application in underdeveloped areas of the world. The preliminary investigation included a study of the mechanical properties of cellu lar plastics, methods for producing such ma terials (alone or in combination with other materials), as well as erection techniques which could result from the use of these ma terials. On the basis of this investigation certain conclusions were reached as to the kinds of structures which would make logical use of foam plastics, utilizing their unique properties and designing around their short comings.