Insulated concrete formwork (ICF) comprises interlocking hollow insulation blocks to make a formwork for in-situ reinforced concrete to be poured in the centre. It is quicker and easier than solid masonry construction and offers a good level of performance and design flexibility. It is popular in Europe and the USA with 8% of market share7 and has been growing in the UK self-build market owing to its speed and ease of construction. Hollow lightweight blocks are made from different insulation types, commonly expanded polystyrene or wood fibre which interlock to create a permanent formwork for the concrete. Concrete is poured into the empty blocks every 3 metres high, and can be reinforced for multistorey ...
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