All about aerated concrete blocks: a detailed overview of the material for construction

Aerated concrete blocks have gained popularity in the building sector because of their special qualities and adaptability. Because of their superior insulation qualities and lightweight design, these blocks are a great choice for energy-efficient home construction. This post will discuss the unique qualities of aerated concrete blocks and the reasons they might be the best option for your upcoming building project.

The outstanding thermal insulation of aerated concrete blocks is one of its main advantages. Little air pockets in the block’s construction trap heat, assisting in the preservation of a constant interior temperature. This can result in a considerable reduction in heating and cooling expenses, making them an affordable choice for both builders and homeowners.

Aerated concrete blocks are not only extremely strong and durable, but they also have excellent insulation qualities. These lightweight blocks are suitable for both residential and commercial construction because they can support large loads despite their composition. They are more appealing as a building material because they are also fire resistant and offer superior sound insulation.

The simplicity of use of aerated concrete blocks is another benefit. They are easily formed, cut, and put together, making construction fast and effective. This increases their affordability and practicality even further by reducing labor costs and time spent on the job site.

All things considered, aerated concrete blocks are a great option for contemporary construction because of their strength, insulation, and ease of use. Making educated decisions for your construction needs can be aided by knowing the advantages and uses of this adaptable material, whether you’re building a new house or starting a renovation project.

Feature	Description
Lightweight	Aerated concrete blocks are much lighter than traditional concrete, making them easier to handle and transport.
Insulation	They provide excellent thermal and sound insulation, helping to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures and reduce noise.
Fire Resistant	These blocks are non-combustible and provide good fire resistance, enhancing building safety.
Durability	Aerated concrete blocks are strong and durable, suitable for both load-bearing and non-load-bearing walls.
Eco-Friendly	They are made from natural raw materials and have a lower environmental impact compared to traditional concrete.
Easy to Work With	These blocks can be easily cut, drilled, and shaped, allowing for flexibility in construction projects.

Characteristics of aerated concrete blocks

Aerated concrete blocks are a unique material. To begin with, we will discuss their types, composition, and fundamental characteristics while also providing an explanation of what an aerated concrete block is.

Composition and technical properties of the material

A product created from a substance that resembles cellular concrete is known as an aerated concrete block. The primary distinction lies in the existence of a porous structure, which significantly dictates the primary set of attributes of the products.

What makes up an aerated concrete block? Quicklime, water, cement, sand (typically quartz), and a blowing agent are the ingredients of the material. The latter is used as aluminum powder or as a paste based on it, as per the GOST recommendation.

Cell formation is triggered during production by a chemical reaction that takes place between aluminum powder and quicklime. The latter’s quantity establishes the products’ weight, density, and thermal conductivity—and, consequently, the range of applications for which they can be used.

Let’s examine the characteristics of aerated concrete blocks in more detail:

• The material has a low thermal conductivity coefficient. The value is between 0.09 and 0.34 W*mC. This means that the building will not only be warm, but also economical in terms of heating the premises in winter.

Developers who use aerated concrete blocks as their primary building material can save money on insulation, particularly if they use a specific adhesive composition for masonry.

• Products are characterized by a density of 300-1200 (kg/m3). This indicator is affected by the concentration of cement in the solution. The more it is, the denser the future products.

• Aerated concrete blocks have a high frost resistance grade. It can reach a value of 150 cycles. It indicates how many freezing and thawing cycles the aerated block can withstand.

Be aware that not many lightweight concrete competitors can claim a higher indicator when comparing this material to theirs. We may draw attention to expanded clay concrete.

• The durability of aerated concrete blocks is also high. If no technical errors are made during construction and finishing, then the building can stand for a long time.

• Strength grades of aerated concrete blocks vary in the range from 1.5 to 15, and are directly dependent on the average density of the material.

• It is worth noting the environmental friendliness of the products, which leaves no doubt. We have already figured out what an aerated concrete block consists of and found out that none of the components of the raw materials is dangerous either for humans or for the environment.

• The moisture absorption of the products is truly high. They are hygroscopic and require protection without fail. Otherwise, the process of destruction of the material will begin.

Aerated concrete block in wet rooms is a video that explains the characteristics of products used in the construction of buildings where humidity will be a major factor.

• The fire resistance of aerated concrete blocks is obvious. According to the quality standard, the material is non-flammable.

• Biological stability is a significant plus. The products are not susceptible to the formation of fungus and mold.
• The sound insulation of an aerated concrete block is quite good. The same can be said about vapor permeation.

The aforementioned qualities all attest to the material’s high performance qualities in addition to its practicality of use. Aerated concrete blocks have an extended lifespan of 200–300 years.

Types and scope of their application

It is now important to consider the different kinds of aerated concrete blocks. They have a fairly thorough classification system that is based on a number of variables.

As was previously mentioned, products can have a variety of average density indicators, which served as the foundation for their classification and determined the range of applications for aerated concrete blocks:

• Material characterized by a density of 300-400 (kg / m3) is called heat-insulating. Of course, it cannot withstand loads, but as a heat-insulating material it is quite suitable.
• The structural and heat-insulating type is more common among consumers. It has a density of 500-900 (kg / m3). This indicator suggests the use of aerated concrete block in the construction of partitions and walls of buildings.
• Density of 1000-1200 kg / m3 is typical for the structural type of products. They are strong enough for use in the construction of other load-bearing structures that are subject to significant loads.

Based on the process of product hardening, there is another variety of aerated concrete blocks:

1. The material can reach the brand strength when processed in autoclaves. Under such conditions, the blocks are exposed to high temperatures and pressure above atmospheric. You cannot make such a block with your own hands. It can only be produced in factories.
2. A non-autoclaved block hardens under natural conditions. Products can also be subjected to heat and moisture treatment in order to speed up the hardening process and improve the performance of some properties.

Kindly take note! Generally speaking, an autoclaved block performs marginally better than a non-autoclaved one. Blocks of aerated concrete that has been artificially hardened have a substantially higher lifespan. Better geometry, strength, density, and resistance to frost are further advantages.

The following categories are also established by the aerated concrete block’s geometry:

• The first category products have the best geometry. High requirements are imposed on them in this regard. Deviations should not exceed more than 1.5 mm in size.

The smallest possible seam thickness is achieved when these blocks are placed on glue.

• The second category — the accuracy of the product is characterized by large permissible deviations from the linear size – up to 2 mm. Chipped corners and edges are also allowed, no more than 2 pieces per product. Laying is done both on glue and on mortar.
• The third category is most often used for the construction of utility rooms. Deviations can reach 0.7 mm in size.

What kind of concrete block is laid with aeration in the third category? Naturally, on bricks. Because the seam will not be thin, there will be more cold bridges, necessitating significant insulation for the structure. This explains, in large part, why aerated concrete blocks with the above-mentioned deviations are used.

One can use a different kind of astringent when making products, or rather, mixtures for them. It might be ash, cement, slag, or lime. You can combine the astringent as well.

For some indicators, the type of silieze component matters a lot. This is relevant to the dry state product’s density to thermal conductivity ratio.

The element may consist of:

• Sand;
• The ash is highly axial;
• Secondary industry products.

Depending on the goal, the blocks could be:

• Particular. As the name implies, they are used in the construction of partitions. This is what thickness can be a blotting aerated concrete block: 75 mm, 100 mm, 120 mm, 150 mm.
• Wall. The dimensions of a gas concrete block intended for the construction of walls can be as follows: 625 (600) *250 (200) *300 (400).
• Aerated concrete U-shaped blocks are often used to create permanent formwork – for example, when installing an armored belt. They are also used when installing lintels.

It is important to note that the products may have unique grooves and ridges, or depressions. Their presence aids in creating the most even masonry possible. Aerated concrete block grips are designed to make the mason’s job easier and more convenient.

Pros and cons of products

There is a long list of benefits and drawbacks associated with aerated concrete blocks. Furthermore, the benefits greatly outweigh the drawbacks, but it is still important to take into account all the attributes. We immediately point out that many of the drawbacks can be mitigated with the aid of technical techniques, which will also be covered.

Thus, the following are the benefits of aerated concrete blocks:

1. Good ability to maintain temperatures.
2. The frost resistance of the product is really at its best.
3. Strength and characteristics, and average density values ​​\u200b\u200ballow the use of the block in the construction of houses several stories high.
4. The fire resistance limit of aerated concrete blocks is quite high. The material belongs to the first class according to this indicator. A 20 cm thick partition will withstand at least 2.5 hours with one-sided exposure to fire. At the same time, the surface temperature on the reverse side will not exceed +220 degrees Celsius.
5. Environmental friendliness is justified by the composition of the products.
6. The dimensions of aerated concrete blocks allow to significantly shorten the construction process.
7. Lightness of weight implies a reduction in the load on the foundation of the building. If it is assumed that the house will be lightweight and small, the foundation can be lightweight.
8. A large selection among manufacturers and a variety of sizes.
9. Low price for products.
10. Possibility of independent production of hydration hardening aerated concrete blocks. Instructions are given below.
11. The thickness of aerated concrete blocks of 400 mm is quite sufficient for the wall of a building located in the middle region of Russia. For comparison, this value for other materials can reach 60 and 70 mm.
12. You can finish walls made of aerated concrete using almost any materials. The main thing is to comply with the technical requirements.
13. The material is easy to process. It can be sawn, cut, given the desired shape.

We will now discuss the drawbacks:

1. Aerated concrete block is prone to shrinkage.
2. The products are very hygroscopic and absorb moisture literally like a sponge.
3. The adhesion of the material will have to be increased, and this is an additional cost of money and time.
4. It is necessary to take into account that the use of any hardware for fixing objects to aerated concrete walls is unacceptable. You will have to purchase special ones.
5. The blocks are fragile, easily subject to mechanical damage.
6. The porous structure is not only a plus, but also a significant minus. If moisture manages to get into the pores and crystallize, the structure of the block will be destroyed over time.

Features of the manufacture of a block from aerated concrete

Since we’ve made the decision to discuss every aspect of the gas concrete block, let’s take a moment to briefly look at the production process. First, we will examine the equipment that is required and provide helpful advice for selecting raw materials and suppliers.

Equipment and raw materials

Different equipment may be used. Regarding autoclave products, there are two types that can be utilized: conveyor and stationary.

The final choice is entirely automated. The process moves along fairly quickly, and the volumes are often quite remarkable. Minus: The kit’s extremely high price.

Partial automation is a characteristic of the stationary type. A specific production stage requires human participation. Already, the configuration determines it. The output volume is capable of 80 m3 per day. You see, this is also a positive outcome.

In addition to the aforementioned types of equipment, simpler tools such as a mobile installation or a kit consisting of a concrete mixer and molds can be utilized if it is decided to produce a non-autoclaved aerated block.

When selecting raw materials, take into account the following:

• The use of cement grades below 400 is not recommended. In this case, the products will not have high density and will be more fragile.
• Materials must not be expired.
• The cement must be homogeneous and free of lumps.
• It is better to use quartz sand.
• Carefully study the building materials market before purchasing. The cost of raw materials directly affects the cost of production.

Description of the technological process

We will discuss the manufacturing stages using the example of producing a synthetic hardening block since, as previously mentioned, the only technological difference between an autoclave and a non-autoclave is in the final processing step.

• Dispensers supply components in the required volume. In case of independent production or in the absence of instruments, you will have to measure using scales.
• The raw materials enter the mixer, where thorough mixing occurs.
• Next, the solution falls into the molds, which are filled approximately 1/3. This is necessary to prevent excess leakage during swelling of the mixture.
• Excess is removed, the blocks are aged for several hours.
• If a single layer is poured, then it is necessary to cut. In production, a special machine is used for this – a cutting complex. The operator sets the required parameters of aerated concrete blocks in terms of size, and the equipment cuts.
• The last step will be autoclaving for approximately 12 hours.
• Subsequently, the blocks are sent to the warehouse, pre-packed.

Acceptance and labeling of products

Product acceptance is done following testing:

• Thermal conductivity is tested at least once a year.
• Frost resistance and shrinkage – at least once every 6 months.
• Density, strength and frost resistance are controlled for each batch of goods.
• A batch is the number of blocks produced using the same technology, in one shift, and having the same composition.
• If the products are manufactured in small batches, they can be combined for testing, but all products must meet the above requirements.
• Acceptance control is carried out according to GOST 13015.1

Blocks of aerated concrete are marked:

• Batches of products that differ in strength and density are marked with indelible paints.
• Marking is applied to at least 2 products on opposite sides of the package.
• If the density of the blocks is equal to a value from D500 to D900, then only the first digit is applied. If – D1000-D1200, then 2 digits are applied.
• The strength grade is indicated in full. For example, if the product has a grade B3.5, then on the blocks they write: 3.5.
• It is mandatory to apply the warning: "Afraid of moisture".

Here are a few more instances: Aerated concrete block D 600 is designated – 6-3.0 and has a strength of B 3.0. Block D700, a B5-strength aerated concrete, is labeled 7-5.

Brief overview of popular manufacturers

Let’s now examine the list of the most well-known aerated concrete block brands.

Use the table, please. Aerated concrete blocks from various manufacturers are shown in Table 1.

Aerated concrete blocks are a common building material because of their energy-efficient, robust, and lightweight characteristics. Aerated concrete is a wise choice for contemporary construction projects, and this article makes it easier for homeowners and builders to understand by giving a thorough overview of these blocks and discussing their uses, advantages, and installation procedure.

House Weight Calculator

For contemporary construction, aerated concrete blocks have shown to be a flexible and effective material. Because of their light weight, they are simple to handle, which lowers labor costs and expedites the construction process. Additionally, the blocks provide good thermal insulation, which lowers energy costs and helps to maintain comfortable interior temperatures.

Aerated concrete blocks are also well-known for their fire resistance and longevity, making them a secure and long-lasting option for a range of construction requirements. They are a popular option for both builders and architects because of their easy shaping and cutting, which facilitates the creation of imaginative architectural designs.

Even with all of their benefits, you should always take your project’s needs into account when selecting aerated concrete blocks. The benefits of using the appropriate blocks for each section of the structure will be maximized by making sure they are installed correctly and will help create a sturdy, effective, and sustainable building.

In conclusion, aerated concrete blocks provide a useful and affordable choice for building projects. They are an important material to take into consideration for any building project because of their advantages in terms of safety, ease of use, and insulation.

Video on the topic

Never build a house from aerated concrete! #housefromaeratedconcrete #buildahouse #whathousetobuild

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