Views: 299 Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 2022-03-31 Origin: Site Inquire
If you have been searching for the best block for your upcoming construction project, chances are that you have narrowed down your list to Autoclaved Aerated Concrete blocks (AAC) and Cellular Lightweight Concrete (CLC) blocks. These two types of blocks are among the most popular types of concrete used for building purposes both in commercial and residential buildings.
Is it difficult for you to choose between these two blocks? Then today you have come to the right place. In this article, we will compare and contrast these two types of blocks and tell you which one between the two is better. Make sure you read until the end so that you don’t miss any crucial information.
Autoclaved aerated concrete is a lightweight precast sustainable construction material made from aggregates of quartz, lime, calcined gypsum, aluminum, Portland cement, and water. After blending and mixing, the concrete is autoclaved under high heat and pressure.
One of the top reasons why most people prefer this type of block is because of its excellent thermal insulation properties and high strength. They can be produced in a wide range of sizes and strengths. AAC blocks are widely used in the construction of commercial, residential, and industrial properties. Their immense strength makes them ideal for building high rise structures
Cellular lightweight concrete is one of the most commonly used types of block for construction purposes. CLC blocks are cement-bonded materials that are made by blending cement, fly ash, sand, water, and preformed foam in varied proportions.
The good thing about CLC blocks is that they don’t have to be transported to the constructed site. Instead, they can be produced at the construction sites using a special machine and molding device.
One of the most outstanding properties of CLC blocks is their self-compacting property which allows them to be pumped on major distances and heights. They are also incredibly stable and lightweight. CLC blocks are commonly used in Acoustic construction, precast exterior walls, low-cost housing, air-conditioned buildings, and much more.
Properties | AAC block | CLC block |
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Raw material | Cement, gypsum, aluminium powder, sand or fly ash, aeration agent | Cement, sand or fly ash, foaming agent, water |
Curing method | Steam curing in autoclave | Water curing or regular steam curing |
Dry density | 450kg/CBM to 1000kg/CBM | 800kg /CBM to 1800 kg/CBM |
Cost | Comparatively higher but affordable | Comparatively lower |
Compressive strength(market common type) | 3 to 5 N/mm2 | 2 to 5 N/mm2 |
Manufacturing scale | Manufactured in large scale | Manufactured in medium or small scale |
Air voids percentage | 50 to 60% of total volume | 30 to 40% of total volume |
Quality | Consistent, as production is mostly automated | Inconsistent, as the production is labour oriented |
Water absorption | 30% for the block having density of 1000kg/CBM | 12.5% for the blocks having density of 1000kg/CBM |
Space for curing | Needs less space | Needs more space |
Availability | Made in larger factories. So they may not be available locally | Made in smaller units. So they may be available locally |
Environmental impact | Energy efficient and a lesser amount of CO2 is emitted while manufacturing | environmental friendly and helps in reducing solid waste for dumping |
Both blocks are unique in their own way and they both have their strengths and weaknesses. The best block is one that suits your individual needs. For instance, if you are looking for high compressive strength in a block then AAC blocks are better.
On the other hand, if you are looking for a lightweight block, then CLC blocks are the perfect option for you. We recommend that you choose a block type that suits your construction needs and budget.