What are Aerated Blocks, and What Are They Used for?

Aerated blocks are also known as autoclaved aerated concrete blocks (AAC). Aerated concrete is the amalgamation of different materials that can be described as lightweight concrete.

Moreover, aerated concrete is commonly used as a building material for making walls, floors, and roofs.

Manufacturing of AAC Blocks

To make aerated concrete blocks, air is introduced into their composition. Additionally, there are three ways to introduce air into its composition.

• By using a porous aggregate, keeping the air in the aggregate.
• Another way is through a single-size aggregate, leaving interstitial air voids.
• Or by directly inducing air or other gas, it forms a uniformed cellular concrete whenever the cement sets.

Properties of Aerated Concrete Blocks

1. Density: Aerated Blocks have a low density, which ranges from 25-50lb. Aerated concrete blocks are lightweight and utilised for insulation, but they don’t have much strength as conventional concrete. Lower-density grades are used for insulation purposes, and medium-density grades are used for manufacturing building blocks or load-bearing walls. Furthermore, comparatively higher density grades are used in manufacturing prefabricated structural members in conjunction with steel reinforcement.
2. Compressive Strength: Due to different testing methods, samples and shapes, the evaluation of declared strength levels from various sources is considered to be complicated.
3. Modulus of Elasticity: Aerated blocks have a low modulus of elasticity than conventional concrete
4. These blocks can be cut, sawn and nailed
5. Water does not penetrate aerated concrete blocks very quickly.

For What Purposes Are Aerated Concreted Blocks Used?

• Aerated concrete blocks are primarily used for heat insulation as they have low thermal conductivity and weight.
• They are used for fireproofing; hence proved better fire resistant than conventional concrete.

Reasons Why Autoclave Aerated Concrete Should be Used

• Faster Construction:

Aerated concrete blocks are used when there is limited construction time. Compared to other non-aerated construction blocks, these blocks have fewer joints, making them easier to move. Moreover, they can be cut easily in the shape and size required by the client to fit a specific place.

• Fire Resistant

Another benefit of aerated concrete blocks is that they are fire-resistant. Depending on the size of the block, the blocks can last between two and six hours before burning through.

• Robust and Durable

Aerated concrete blocks are highly strong and durable because they are manufactured with non-biodegradable material and repel mould.

• Cost-Effectiveness

Due to its much lower weight than conventional concrete blocks, autoclaved aerated concrete blocks can be utilised with less steel and concrete to keep them in place.

Because less concrete and steel are needed, the construction cost is also reduced.

• Sound Proofing

If there is a noise issue, autoclave aerated concrete blocks are ideal.

• Safe Materials

Autoclaved aerated concrete blocks are manufactured using a non-toxic material to be used safely.

• Energy-efficient

These blocks are very well insulated, which helps keep the temperature inside the building. Therefore, using autoclaved aerated concrete blocks saves a greater amount of energy.

Disadvantages of Aerated Concrete Blocks

• If the blocks are improperly installed, it will result in cracking of the blocks’ structure, eventually affecting the finishing of the building.
• As porous material is used in their manufacturing, therefore should be handled by the labour carefully. Otherwise, this may cause unwanted breakage.
• According to the quantity you order, AAC block prices may vary. Compared to traditional bricks, the overall cost may be expensive if you create a low-rise, tiny structure. Therefore, these work best in high-rise structures.
• Not every mason can handle AAC blocks; therefore, they must be handled by professionals only.