Aerated concrete Automatic translate

Aerated concrete, a lightweight prefabricated building material, known for its unique properties and advantages in construction. It is used in residential, commercial and industrial buildings, providing a number of advantages, as well as certain disadvantages. Building a house from aerated concrete on a turnkey basis is simpler and cheaper than building from brick or other more durable materials, but compliance with the technology requires no less. So what features of aerated concrete should be taken into account when choosing it as a material for your home?

Aerated concrete consists of cement, lime, sand, water and an expanding agent, usually aluminum powder. When aluminum powder reacts with other components, it releases hydrogen gas, creating small, fine air pockets throughout the material. As a result of this process, a light porous structure is formed, which determines the unique properties of aerated concrete.

Advantages of aerated concrete

Light weight and high strength to weight ratio

One of the main advantages of aerated concrete is its low density, which allows you to reduce the overall weight of the structure without compromising its strength. This characteristic makes it easier to handle and transport, reducing labor costs and construction time. The high strength-to-weight ratio also improves the structural integrity of buildings, making them more resistant to seismic forces.

Thermal insulation

Aerated concrete has excellent thermal insulation properties due to its porous structure. Trapped air pockets reduce thermal conductivity, helping to maintain constant indoor temperatures and reducing the need for additional insulation materials. The result is energy-efficient buildings that significantly reduce heating and cooling costs.

Fire resistance

Aerated concrete has high fire resistance and can withstand temperatures up to 1,200 degrees Celsius. Its inorganic composition prevents the material from burning or releasing toxic gases when exposed to fire, making it a safer choice for residential construction.

Soundproofing

The porous structure of aerated concrete also provides good sound insulation, reducing noise transmission between rooms and from external sources. This is especially useful in densely populated urban areas where noise pollution is a problem.

Environmental friendliness

The aerated concrete production process does not harm the environment. It consumes less energy and raw materials compared to traditional concrete. The material itself is recyclable, and buildings made from aerated concrete have a lower carbon footprint due to their energy efficiency.

Disadvantages of aerated concrete

Fragility

Despite its strength, aerated concrete is more fragile than traditional concrete. It can crack under certain conditions, especially if it is not properly reinforced or is subjected to significant impact loads. This fragility may limit its use in load-bearing structures without additional support.

Sensitivity to moisture

Aerated concrete is more susceptible to moisture absorption than traditional concrete. Without proper protection or sealing, prolonged exposure to moisture can cause deterioration and reduced durability. It is important to use appropriate waterproofing measures to mitigate this problem.

High initial costs

Producing aerated concrete blocks requires specialized equipment and processes, which can result in higher initial costs than conventional concrete. However, these costs are often offset by savings in labor, transportation and energy efficiency over the life of the building.

Features of the technology

Autoclaving process

The production of aerated concrete involves a process known as autoclaving, where the formed blocks are cured under high pressure and temperature in an autoclave. This process improves the strength, durability and dimensional stability of the material, ensuring uniform quality across all blocks.

Precision and versatility

Aerated concrete blocks are produced with high precision, which allows for consistency in size and shape. This precision makes installation easier and reduces the need for on-site adjustments. The versatility of aerated concrete also allows for a variety of architectural designs, including complex shapes and intricate details.

Ease of construction

The lightness of aerated concrete blocks simplifies the construction process. The blocks are easier for builders to handle and install, reducing the need for heavy equipment and labor. The blocks can be cut, drilled and shaped using standard tools, further increasing their versatility on construction sites.

Durability

Durability

With proper construction and maintenance, aerated concrete houses can have a long service life. The material’s resistance to fire, pests and negative environmental influences contributes to its durability. However, to ensure the longevity of the structure, it is essential to address moisture issues.

Service

To maintain the integrity of aerated concrete buildings, regular maintenance is necessary. This includes inspecting and repairing any cracks or damage, ensuring proper waterproofing and promptly addressing moisture intrusion. Proper maintenance can significantly extend the life of aerated concrete structures.

Thermal conductivity

Energy efficiency

The low thermal conductivity of aerated concrete makes it an excellent insulator, reducing the need for additional insulating materials. This property helps improve the energy efficiency of buildings, helping to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures with less need for heating and cooling systems.

Seasonal characteristics

The thermal properties of aerated concrete are beneficial in both hot and cold climates. In cold climates, it helps retain heat inside a building, reducing heating costs. In hot climates, it helps keep the interior cool, reducing the need for air conditioning. This dual characteristic makes it a versatile material for various environmental conditions.