Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (AAC), also known as autoclaved cellular concrete or aircrete, is a revolutionary lightweight precast foam concrete material. It possesses a multitude of benefits and is a versatile alternative to traditional building materials.
In 1924, a forward-thinking Swedish architect sought to create a building material that emulated the advantageous qualities of wood, such as thermal insulation and structural integrity. AAC emerged as the result, combining these wood-like features with enhanced resistance to fire and termites.
1.Oven-Dry Density : The weight of AAC blocks when they are completely dry is about 552 to 650 kilograms per cubic meter.
2. Compressive Strength : This measures how strong the blocks are when squeezed. For AAC blocks, the compressive strength is between 35 to 40 kilograms per square centimeter, following IS Code 2185.
3. Thermal Resistance : Think of this as the ability of AAC blocks to resist heat. They are good at it! Their thermal resistance is in the range of 0.8 to 1.25 per inch of thickness.
4. Sound Transmission : Want a quiet space? AAC blocks can help. For a 4-inch wide block, the Sound Transmission Class (STC) is 40, and for an 8-inch wide block, it’s 45.
1. Lightweight Construction
2. Easy Workability and Design Flexibility
3. Accelerated Construction
4. Environmental Friendliness and Sustainability
5. Cost Savings
While AAC blocks offer numerous advantages, it’s important to consider some potential drawbacks:
1. Limited Load-Bearing Capacity : AAC blocks are primarily suitable for partition walls.
2. Potential for Cracking : Care must be taken during installation to mitigate the risk of cracking.
3. Brittle Nature : Handling and transporting AAC blocks require extra caution compared to clay bricks.
4. Initial Cost : While the cost per unit of AAC blocks may be higher, overall masonry costs are lower due to reduced mortar usage.
5. Special Fixings Required : Wall hangings and cabinets may require longer screws and specialized wall plugs, which can incur additional expenses.
6. Compliance with Building Codes : Some regions may necessitate thicker walls when using AAC blocks, leading to alternative building methods.
7. Limited Chiseling : AAC blocks are not suitable for chiseling and require specific techniques for cutting.
When it comes to laying AAC blocks, it’s important to follow specific guidelines to ensure a sturdy and reliable construction. In this guide, we’ll break down the process into easy-to-follow steps.
Materials Needed
Before we begin, gather the following materials:
Step 1: Cutting Openings and Odd Angles : To accommodate openings and odd angles, use a handsaw to carefully trim the AAC blocks. This ensures a precise fit in your construction.
Step 2: Placing Bond Beams : Bond beams are horizontal blocks that provide additional strength to the structure. They should be placed at the top of the wall. These beams can also be utilized for attaching heavy fixtures.
Step 3: Avoiding Straight Vertical Joints : Ensure that the vertical joints are not in a straight line. This staggered arrangement enhances the stability of the masonry.
Step 4: Overlapping in Structured Course : In the structured course, overlap the blocks by a minimum of 250 mm over the bottom course. This overlapping technique contributes to the overall stability of the construction.
