Autoclave aerated blocks

Published on 01 Apr 2021. Written by Akshay

The current development in technology has introduced us many building materials, so that the construction process goes in an ease. But due to demand of high rise buildings, the weight of the building is rising due to use of traditional constructional materials like bricks for wall construction and hence the cost of construction is going on increasing and hence some new building materials should be introduced such that the dead load on the building should be reduced.

Hence the introduction of autoclaved aerated concrete(AAC) was done, which uses fine aggregates, cement, and an expansion agent which causes the made mixture to be like freshly prepared bread dough.

This is a special type of concrete which contains 80 percent air and hence which makes to float in water even having great strength.

When this type of concrete is produced, then it is molded and cut into specified units. These are then joined with thin mortar bed.

Advantages

It is insulating and has structural capability.
Its so light that it can be easily cut, shaved and shaped into required shape.
The units can be shaped with precision and can be conformed to tight tolerances
It also provides resistance to fire and also noncombustible and hence doesnot burn or give toxic fumes

Disadvantages

The easy unavailability of the material
Due to light weight it requires a protective finish
Due to its porosity it deteriorates when left exposed to air
Sometimes plaster may not stick properly due to its smooth surface.

Sustainability and Energy Considerations

Autoclaved aerated concrete offers performance aspects in terms of both material and performance.
In consistently cold climates, the savings may be somewhat less because this material has lower thermal mass than other types of concrete.

Physical properties

Density:20 to 50 pounds per cubic foot (pcf) this is light enough to float in water
Compressive strength:300 to 900 pounds per square inch (psi)
Thermal resistance:8 to 1.25 per inch. of thickness
Sound transmission class (STC):40 for 4-inch thickness; 45 for 8-inch thickness

AAC Projects

A Tale of Three Cities

Handal Home, Maryland

Dodson Home

The Grove at Inlet Beach

Conclusions

We can conclude that usage of aerated blocks in construction is very helpful in reducing the dead loads on building and these cannot be used under snow conditions due to its light weight, hence study can be carried out to overcome the disadvantages. Hence usage of aerated blocks should be promoted.

Kit required to develop Autoclave aerated blocks:

Technologies you will learn by working on Autoclave aerated blocks:

Building material

Autoclave aerated blocks

Sustainability and Energy Considerations

Physical properties

AAC Projects

Conclusions

Any Questions?

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