Arbolite or expanded clay concrete: comparing competing representatives of lightweight concrete

Selecting the proper kind of lightweight concrete for your building project can be very important. Expanded clay concrete and arbolite are two common choices with special advantages. Making an informed decision can be aided by being aware of the distinctions between various materials.

Arbolite, sometimes referred to as wood concrete, is made by mixing cement, additional additives, and wood chips. This combination produces a material that is eco-friendly, lightweight, and provides good acoustic and thermal insulation. Because of its versatility and ease of use in different building applications, it is especially well-liked.

Conversely, tiny, light clay pellets are used as the aggregate in expanded clay concrete. Clay is heated to high temperatures in order to form these pellets, which produce a material that is both lightweight and strong. The long-term stability, resistance to moisture, and thermal insulation of expanded clay concrete are well-known.

This article will compare the composition, advantages, and potential disadvantages of Arbolite and expanded clay concrete. By the end, you’ll know more clearly which kind of material would work best for your next project.

Review of arbolite and products made from it

Let’s begin by reviewing arbolite. This is a relatively new material that has become well-known because of its impressive performance. And we’ll think about those in particular now.

Brief description

One example of lightweight concrete is arbolite, which varies primarily in the filler. Wood chips and other materials with comparable qualities, like hemp shives, flax, cotton, or rice straw, are included in the composition.

A binder is used in cement. Additionally, the composition typically includes specialized additives such as calcium nitrate and chloride, aluminum sulfate, and liquid glass. They improve the degree of adherence between the concrete and the organic component.

Because of its unique composition, the material has a unique set of properties that set it apart from the others. Let’s take a closer look at them.

The indicators will be extremely competitive if you pay attention to how the density and thermal conductivity values correspond.

Kindly take note! The ratios of the raw materials have a significant impact on the material’s density. This dependence is seen nearby in the picture.

Kindly take note! The effects of hygroscopicity shouldn’t worry you if the finishing is done properly technically.

It is important to note the limited selection of arbolite block sizes. The typical measurements are 200 * 300 * 500 mm.

Technological features of production

Though there are some differences, the production technique is largely the same as that used to make other products from lightweight concrete.

Let’s examine the work process in detail and emphasize its features:

1. First, the wood chips are processed. It is sorted and crushed. Then it is divided according to size and shipped for subsequent mixing.
2. The next step is mixing the chips with cement and water.
3. When the solution is ready, molding is done.
4. The last step is drying.

The production process is not difficult to understand, as you can see. Still, there are a few guidelines that must be adhered to, particularly if you choose to produce it yourself.

• The cement grade must be at least 400;
• The proportions of the components should be measured very carefully. The concentration of cement affects the density and strength. Depending on its quantity, it will vary up or down.
• Avoid purchasing low-quality raw materials.
• Do not remove the formwork before the established deadline in order to prevent deformation of the products.
• Do not use blocks in construction until they reach brand strength.

Positive and negative qualities of the material

Positive attributes are present in the wood block, but it also has drawbacks. Let’s examine both viewpoints.

Let’s begin by discussing the material’s advantages:

• Good heat-saving ability will allow you to save on heating and insulation of the building;
• A high frost resistance value indicates durability, which, according to manufacturers, can reach 200 years;
• Strength characteristics and density indicators allow the products to be actively used in the construction of houses;
• Environmental friendliness and fire resistance of blocks;
• Vapor permeability and sound insulation properties;
• The low weight of the products can significantly reduce the load on the foundation of the building and save on its construction;
• Large dimensions simplify the construction process and increase speed;
• Bio-resistance excludes the possibility of mold and mildew;
• Easy handling will allow you to easily saw and cut the product;
• Acceptable price;
• Possibility of self-production with minimal costs.

The following are the drawbacks:

• As already mentioned, arbolite is hygroscopic, it absorbs moisture and requires technically correct protection;
• The value of heat transfer resistance is a secret for everyone;
• Poor adhesion, the need for additional costs to improve it;
• Small choice among manufacturers, low variability of sizes;
• Availability of low-quality goods manufactured in handicraft industries;
• Fragility of products.

The concept of expanded clay concrete, its composition and properties

It’s time to discuss expanded clay concrete now. Its characteristics and attributes will be analyzed to enable a thorough comparison.

Quality indicators

Another kind of lightweight concrete is expanded clay concrete, although expanded clay in different proportions is frequently used as a filler. You can also use pumz, slag gravel, algopar, and shungisitis.

Similar principles govern how the final product is affected by the raw material composition: a larger cement batch produces a stronger product with a higher thermal conductivity coefficient.

We will now ascertain it in the expanded clay concrete’s properties:

• Thermal conductivity is 0.14-0.45 W*ms. This, you see, is not the lowest indicator, but in combination with strength – quite acceptable. The wall thickness may not exceed 50 cm for the middle region of the Russian Federation.
• The density is 400-2000 kg/m3. Depending on it, expanded clay concrete can be used in the construction of certain structures, as well as to warm them. Moreover, expanded clay concrete is used even when arranging foundations.
• Minimum strength – B3.5.
• Frost resistance in expanded clay concrete is extremely high. He is a leader in this respect among competitors. Value reaches 200 freeze-thaw cycles.
• It is also worth noting high durability, reaching 300 years.
• Environmental friendliness of the material – there is no doubt. The composition of the raw material is completely safe.
• Expanded concrete- does not come into contact with fire and, moreover, can withstand the effects of elevated temperature over a long period of time.
• Water absorption is characteristic of the material, the value is 18%. As in the case of arbolite, the products should be protected.
• Ceramzitoblock is not subject to shrinkage – as, in fact, deformations.

Production technology

• First, the solution is kneaded. First of all, water enters the concrete mixer, then expanded clay, sand and the last – cement. All components are thoroughly mixed until a homogeneous mass is formed.
• The finished solution is formed and placed on the vibration press, which provokes the seal, thereby improving the quality of future products.
• The mixture placed in the forms is left for some time to partially harden, while the excess is removed.
• After curing, the formwork is removed.
• The final stage is drying of the products. The brand strength is achieved after 28 days.

Independent production of expanded clay concrete blocks is another option. Expensive equipment is not required. A small installation will do just fine.

In a factory, products are manufactured on semi- and fully automated equipment. Therefore, as a rule, they are of better quality than home-made products.

Main advantages and disadvantages

Although the benefits of expanded clay concrete and its byproducts greatly outweigh the drawbacks in both quantitative and qualitative terms, we will still weigh the pros and cons in order to form an objective opinion of the material.

Let’s begin with the positive:

• Expanded clay concrete is able to maintain temperature;
• Frost resistance, strength and density of products are also at their best;
• The dimensions are quite large, and the weight is small;
• Low price, variety of manufacturers and size variability are also significant advantages;
• Environmental friendliness of the material and fire resistance;
• Biological stability;
• No shrinkage;
• Variability of finishing both internal and external.
• Durability;
• Good adhesion.

• Hygroscopicity;
• Fragility;
• Problems with cutting and sawing.

Types of arbolite and expanded clay concrete: common features and main differences

The average density of the components determines the classification of expanded clay concrete and arbolite. They can serve as a material for thermal insulation and act as heat-insulators.

Generally speaking, these products’ densities shouldn’t be higher than 500 kg/m3. Structural and heat-insulating materials with greater durability are employed in low-rise building. The densest products are structural ones, which are utilized to build load-bearing structures.

Arbolite blocks and expanded clay concrete both offer a variety of products, including:

• Products with a facing side that do not require finishing;
• Standard wall blocks;
• Partition products.

Goods may be solid, hollow, or feature ridges and grooves. Compared to wood blocks, expanded clay concrete is classified more broadly. Additionally, ventilation blocks, or FBS, are produced using it.

The block’s surface may be uneven, chipped, smooth, or corrugated. When it comes to the range of uses for materials, they are similar in that they are both used to make monolithic structures in liquid form, as well as in the form of blocks and panels.

House Weight Calculator

It can be difficult to decide between expanded clay concrete and arbolite, two common lightweight concrete alternatives. Arbolite is a popular choice for environmentally friendly projects because of its superior thermal insulation and ease of handling. Conversely, expanded clay concrete provides better strength and longevity, making it appropriate for stronger structures. To assist you in choosing the best material for your building requirements, this article compares the qualities, advantages, and recommended applications of these two materials.

Comparison of materials

We have talked about the characteristics of materials. Now, let’s attempt to ascertain which of the materials holds a leading position based on the data collected.

What to choose: expanded clay concrete or arbolite

Name of the indicator	Comparison of materials
Thermal conductivity	If we consider only this indicator, without taking into account additional factors, then the winner should definitely be called a wood block. Its ability to maintain heat significantly exceeds this property in expanded clay concrete.

Arbolite, as you can see, triumphs in certain indications and in certain expanded clay concrete. However, generally speaking, it is important to note that the latter still has an advantage, especially when considering price, which is frequently the most significant factor for the customer.

Comparison of materials with the main competitors-representatives of light concrete

Having already examined Arbolite and expanded clay concrete, what distinguishes them from other types of light concrete?

Foam discoveries and aerated concrete are the primary competitors of these types of cellular concrete. Since the two materials mentioned above are very similar to one another, let’s examine an example of one of them. Use foam concrete, please. So which is better, foam concrete or arbolite?

The following are the benefits of foam concrete over arbolite:

• It is cheaper. In this regard, many building products for walls are inferior to the material;
• Foam concrete also has a more extensive classification and scope of application;
• The variety of foam block manufacturers is extremely large.
• The range of sizes also adds advantages to the material;
• The strength and density of the foam block can reach large numerical values;
• Production cost is lower;
• Moisture absorption is less;

Be aware that polystyrene concrete shares characteristics with arbolite. It also has low strength indicators and a very low coefficient of thermal conductivity. But it’s a lot less expensive.

All of the aforementioned materials are inferior to expanded clay concrete in many aspects. Its strengths—frost resistance, durability, strength characteristics, and average density values—have already become evident.

The video in this article: “Aerated concrete or arbolite: instructions for choosing a winner” contains information on the analysis of the properties of competing materials.

Calculation of the composition of the mortar for masonry work

Feature	Arbolite	Expanded Clay Concrete
Composition	Wood chips and cement	Expanded clay and cement
Thermal Insulation	High	Moderate
Strength	Moderate	High
Density	Low	Medium
Weight	Lightweight	Heavier than Arbolite
Moisture Resistance	Low	High
Fire Resistance	High	High
Eco-friendliness	High	Moderate

Your unique building requirements will determine which expanded clay concrete or arbolite is best for you. Arbolite is a great material for residential buildings in colder climates because it provides excellent soundproofing and thermal insulation. Because of its flexibility and lighter weight, it’s also easier to work with.

Conversely, expanded clay concrete is well known for its robustness and longevity. It’s an excellent option for constructions like multi-story buildings and industrial buildings that need to be able to support heavier loads. Its resistance to fire and moisture further increases its allure for a range of construction projects.

Because arbolite is made using easily obtained materials and has a simpler production process, it can be more economical. Expanded clay concrete’s longevity and decreased maintenance requirements over time, however, may make up for its higher cost.

In the end, the choice is determined by the particular needs of your project. When choosing, take budget, building type, and climate into account. Knowing the distinct advantages of each material will enable you to choose the one that best meets your building objectives.

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