Foam-Control Geofoam Solves Challenges on Stadium Renovation
When the structural revitalization of Kansas State University’s Memorial Stadium began in November of 2013, engineers and builders turned to a unique construction material to solve some complex engineering challenges. The renovations have transformed the stadium’s wing buildings into a fully modern black box theater on one side and a new student services center on the other. After deciding to reuse the majority of the stadium’s concrete riser seating as green roofs for the buildings below, a lightweight material was needed. The solution, Foam-Control EPS Geofoam from ACH Foam Technologies.
“Initially, the thinking was to patch the concrete and then cover the stands with a layer of soil to develop the desired contours of the green roofs,” shares Sean Zaudke, Vice President with Gould Evans, designers for the west stadium’s transformation. “However, when the structural loading report came back it was clear we couldn’t add a tremendous amount of weight to the roofs and still comply with today’s building code requirements.”