Aerated concrete happens autoclave and non-autoclave, and many builders are wondering what the differences are between them.

Let's figure this out together, but looking ahead, let's say that autoclaved aerated concrete is a much higher quality material, and then we will tell you why.

What is autoclave processing of aerated concrete?

Autoclave processing – stage of processing aerated concrete with high temperature (190°C) under high pressure during 12 hours. Autoclaves are metal containers into which cut gas blocks are placed.

Autoclaving is done for the following purposes:

1. acceleration of aerated concrete hardening;
2. increased strength;
3. reduction of shrinkage;
4. improvement of structure homogeneity;
5. improvement of block geometry.

The autoclave also changes the structure of aerated concrete at the molecular level, forming new material – tobermoritis. This synthesized stone has properties that cannot be obtained under normal conditions at standard pressure and temperature.

We repeat that non-autoclaved aerated concrete hardens in natural conditions, and its production is expensive and modern equipment not required. In other words, many manufacturers stamp gas blocks in their garages, which does not inspire much confidence.

Now let’s take a closer look at the differences between aerated concrete, and we’ll start with strength.

Comparison of autoclaved and non-autoclaved aerated concrete

It is important to note that the video tests non-autoclaved aerated concrete, to which fiber fiber has been added; it significantly increases the strength of the blocks. But we note that in reality, not everyone uses fiber in the production of non-autoclaved aerated concrete, since it is quite expensive.

Strength

Aerated concrete without an autoclave is less durable, especially when it is fresh. After all, like ordinary concrete, it still needs time to gain strength, but autoclaved concrete has accelerated its hardening hundreds of times thanks to high-temperature steam treatment. But even with complete hardening of both materials, the strength of the autoclave is higher by half or more.

For example, autoclaved grades of aerated concrete D500 and D600 have a strength class of B2.5 - B3.5, while a non-autoclaved analogue of the same brand achieves, at best, class B2.

Shrinkage

Large shrinkage of blocks can create multiple cracks in the masonry; moreover, cracks can appear over the course of a year or more. To keep such processes to a minimum, block shrinkage should be minimal.

The shrinkage of non-autoclaved aerated concrete is from 3 to 5 mm per meter, while that of autoclaved aerated concrete is ten times less. That is, autoclaved aerated concrete practically does not produce shrinkage cracks when laid correctly.

Block geometry

The geometry of the blocks is also very important, and the smoother the blocks are to each other, the better. After all, if the blocks differ from each other by 5 mm, then the difference in level must be leveled with glue, and these are cold bridges that greatly worsen the thermal insulation characteristics of the masonry.

Moreover, thick seams cause greater shrinkage, which again can cause cracks. Experienced builders will tell you that the difference in levels can be leveled with a float on aerated concrete, but imagine how much time it will take.

Now let’s think about where the geometry of the blocks will be better, on high-tech factory equipment with autoclaves, or in garage conditions? The answer is obvious!

Most builders believe that the best and most even blocks are obtained from AEROC. average price per cube of their aerated concrete is 4000 rubles.

Uniformity of structure

Uniformity refers to the number of voids (bubbles) that are distributed in a certain way in aerated concrete, and the more uniform they are, the better. Autoclaved aerated concrete technology guarantees an ideal distribution of voids, due to the fact that bubbles form and harden immediately, and individual blocks are obtained after cutting one large block.

Non-autoclaved aerated concrete is made completely differently. IN concrete mixture foam and blowing agents are added. As a result, bubbles can rise closer to the surface, while heavier elements fall down. As a result, the distribution of bubbles will be uneven.

Now let's think about what this threatens. Firstly, where there are fewer bubbles, there is less strength, and where there are few bubbles, there is a cold bridge through which heat will escape faster. That is, the strength and thermal conductivity of non-autoclaved aerated concrete are very unstable.

Thermal conductivity

Smoothly moving from the topic of structure uniformity to thermal conductivity, we will say that the uneven structure of bubbles worsens the average thermal conductivity of the block, and naturally, in autoclaved aerated concrete, the uniformity of bubbles is better and, therefore, the thermal insulation is also better.

Conclusion

Autoclaved and non-autoclaved aerated concrete differ greatly from each other in a number of parameters, and it is safe to say that autoclaved material is superior to its counterpart in all respects, except one - price. Yes, non-autoclaved aerated blocks are cheaper, but if you count how many problems arise when laying them, how many additional materials, work and time will have to be done, we advise you to think carefully when making your choice.

It’s better to build a house correctly once, from quality material, and be sure that it will last for many years without problems.

Due to the increased interest in aerated concrete blocks, many are interested in the difference between aerated concrete and autoclaved aerated concrete. And although new material is obtained from the same components, there are differences in the use of the material, quality, strength and density of the block. Depending on the hardening conditions, autoclaved and non-autoclaved aerated concrete differ in performance characteristics. Characteristic for non-autoclave large shrinkage, and autoclave products are characterized by dimensional stability.

The difference between autoclaved aerated concrete and non-autoclaved aerated concrete in terms of production technology and application

Despite the popularity of aerated concrete products, not everyone knows how autoclaved and non-autoclaved aerated concrete is produced. Many people not associated with construction sector, cellular concrete is associated with non-autoclave technology. However, aerated concrete products are also produced using the autoclave method. Depending on the chosen production method, it varies necessary equipment for making and hardening blocks.

The performance characteristics differ between autoclaved and non-autoclaved aerated concrete

Aerated concrete composites, depending on the method of hardening, are divided into the following types:

Autoclave materials

The starting raw material is Portland cement mixed with quartz sand, lime and water. Aluminum powder is introduced into the working mixture, which, interacting with lime, promotes the formation of air pores.

During the gas-forming reaction, the volume increases due to the uniform formation of many pores inside the aerated concrete mass round shape with a diameter of no more than 3 mm. After the molds are filled, the products are placed in autoclave chambers. At temperatures exceeding 200 degrees Celsius and a pressure of 10-12 atmospheres, the material hardens, acquiring working properties;

Non-autoclave products

It is made from the same components as autoclave blocks. When producing aerated concrete using the non-autoclave method, there is no need to use autoclaves. Simple technology allows the production of aerated concrete in small enterprises or on a construction site.

After preparing the working solution, the molding containers are filled. Aerated concrete mixture hardens under natural conditions. By reducing the energy intensity of production, the cost of non-autoclave units is significantly reduced. However, at temperature environment Drying time increases to a month.

Features of manufacturing technology affect the structure and properties of the material. Autoclave blocks with cells evenly distributed inside the array, they have increased strength. Non-autoclaved products also have a porous structure, but the air cavities are unevenly located inside the blocks. This negatively affects strength.

The structure and properties of the material are influenced by the manufacturing technology

The use of non-autoclaved and autoclaved aerated concrete is different:

• Residential buildings of various heights, cottages and dachas are built from blocks obtained using autoclave technology;
• non-autoclave material is used for construction utility rooms and technical objects.

The strength of buildings built from non-autoclaved aerated concrete is lower than that of buildings made from autoclaved building materials. Various technology production, which determines the performance characteristics of the material - the main difference between autoclaved aerated concrete and non-autoclaved aerated concrete.

Basic properties of non-autoclaved and autoclaved aerated concrete

Let's consider the properties of heat-treated and naturally hardened aerated concrete. Main characteristics of materials:

• elevated thermal insulation properties. Thanks to the air cells located inside the aerated concrete mass, the material retains heat well. The energy-saving properties of gas blocks make it possible to maintain a favorable temperature in the building all year round, as well as reduce the amount of space heating costs;
• soundproofing characteristics. Aerated concrete walls make it difficult for street noise to penetrate into living spaces. Effective noise insulation is ensured by saturating the array with air pores that absorb extraneous sounds. Sound-absorbing properties provide comfortable conditions for accommodation;

The material retains heat well thanks to the air cells located inside the aerated concrete mass.

• resistance to impact negative temperatures. The frost resistance of aerated concrete depends on the concentration of moisture accumulating inside the air cells. Under the influence of negative temperatures, the liquid crystallizes and, increasing its volume, tries to destroy the gas block. Plastering the surface of the blocks increases frost resistance;
• light weight. From block aerated concrete, characterized by reduced weight and increased volume, are quickly erected different kinds buildings. To transport lightweight gas blocks, vehicles with increased carrying capacity are not required. Products for masonry are fed manually, and aerated concrete walls do not place increased load on the foundation;
• machinability. There is no need to use special equipment to change the size of aerated blocks during masonry. The material is easily cut with a hand saw or grinder. If it is necessary to make a hole or cavity inside an aerated concrete block, this operation can be easily performed using an electric drill.

Aerated concrete blocks also characterized by:

• correct form;
• exact dimensions;
• rough surface;
• environmental cleanliness;
• fire safety;
• at an affordable price.

Planning to build a box own home or cottages made of aerated concrete blocks, you should choose the right material and understand how autoclaved aerated concrete differs from non-autoclaved aerated concrete. Let us dwell on this point in more detail and compare the properties of materials produced using different technologies.

The frost resistance of aerated concrete depends on the concentration of moisture accumulating inside the air cells.

The difference between aerated concrete and autoclaved aerated concrete in terms of technical characteristics

For the construction of buildings, autoclaved and non-autoclaved aerated concrete is used. What is better to use for the construction of a specific structure? To answer this question, you need to compare the characteristics.

Autoclaved and non-autoclaved aerated concrete – which is better in quality

Technology plays a decisive role in product quality:

• autoclave materials are produced in industrial conditions using modern technological equipment with an increased degree of automation. The influence of the human factor in the production process is minimized. Quality control is carried out in special laboratories;
• non-autoclaved aerated concrete is produced using a simplified technology that does not require special equipment. Using a concrete mixer, formwork and auxiliary workers, it is not difficult to produce blocks in a makeshift manner. Under such manufacturing conditions, it is difficult to talk about the stability of product quality.

When thinking about the durability of a future structure, give preference to industrial products manufactured in accordance with the requirements of the current standard.

Differences in aerated concrete strength

The strength properties of aerated concrete are related to its density. With equal specific gravity The load capacity of autoclaved concrete and non-autoclaved composite differs significantly:

It is easy to cut material with a hand saw or grinder

• thermal insulating aerated concrete with a specific gravity of 0.4 t/m3, produced by the autoclave method, has a strength class of up to B2.5;
• similar material that has undergone hardening at natural temperature and pressure, has a strength class reduced to B0.75.

The popular D600 gas block, steamed in autoclaves, has a compressive strength of B3.5. The strength of the same block made using a non-autoclave method is B2. The heterogeneity of the structure of handicraft blocks negatively affects their strength.

Shrinkage of non-autoclaved and autoclaved building materials

Aerated concrete blocks have different shrinkage. For this indicator, the value is regulated by the standard:

• shrinkage of autoclaved materials per meter of masonry does not exceed 0.5 mm;
• the same figure for non-autoclave blocks reaches 3 mm.

To prevent cracking of the walls, you should use a reinforcing mesh and plaster the surface of the aerated concrete.

How does the technology for creating aerated concrete affect the porous structure?

Depending on the production method, the homogeneity of aerated concrete changes:

• air cavities in autoclave products are evenly distributed throughout the volume;
• the cells inside non-autoclave blocks are concentrated near the outer surface.

Making non-autoclaved aerated concrete without compacting the material causes unevenness in the structure, which negatively affects performance.

The uniformity of aerated concrete varies depending on the production method

Precision of block production

Aerated concrete products manufactured various methods, are distinguished by geometric accuracy and dimensional stability:

• thanks to the use of precision equipment for the production of autoclave products, the error of the blocks does not exceed 1 mm;
• use of inexpensive equipment and different forms for the manufacture of non-autoclaved blocks increases the dimensional tolerance to 5 mm.

With stable dimensions and precise tolerances, the consumption of glue is reduced, which can be laid in a layer of 1-2 mm.

Comparing the properties of materials based on thermal conductivity

Both types of aerated concrete have improved thermal insulation characteristics, but there are certain differences:

• autoclaved aerated concrete provides thermal protection with reduced product thickness;
• To ensure thermal insulation of a building made of non-autoclaved blocks, increased wall thickness is required.

Autoclave blocks are superior to non-autoclave building materials in terms of thermal insulation properties.

We compare the frost resistance of aerated concrete blocks

The durability of buildings depends on the frost resistance of the blocks:

• walls built from non-autoclaved aerated concrete can withstand no more than 50 freezing cycles;
• structures made from autoclaved gas blocks are not subject to destruction over 100 cycles.

When choosing a material for a residential building, it is important to consider its frost resistance.

We evaluate the fire resistance of aerated concrete

Both types of aerated concrete are equally fireproof. When the material is heated, no toxic substances are released. Aerated concrete is used for the construction of fire-resistant structures where there is a high probability of exposure to elevated temperatures.

Conclusion

Having analyzed the difference between autoclaved aerated concrete and non-autoclaved one, it is easy to choose a building material for the solution specific tasks. It is important to comprehensively evaluate the properties of the material. It is preferable to use high-quality aerated concrete, which is characterized by increased strength.

Today, builders are increasingly resorting to the use of modern, lightweight materials that are not inferior to traditional ones. These include aerated concrete. Blocks are produced using two methods - non-autoclave and autoclave. What is the difference, how do the materials differ, and most importantly, which one is better to prefer?

Which one is preferable?

Fake diamond

• cement;
• lime;
• quartz sand;
• aluminum powder (as a result of the reaction of its aqueous suspension with lime, hydrogen is released, due to which bubbles appear in aerated concrete).

A small amount of gypsum is also added to slow down the thickening of the mixture.

Technology

The composition is mixed automatically. Next, it is poured into molds (approximately half). As the mass thickens, it rises to the edges, this takes about an hour or two. After this, the aerated concrete is cut into blocks using special equipment and sent to an autoclave oven for twelve hours. There he is high blood pressure at 12 atmospheres, it is treated with water vapor heated to a temperature of 190°C, acquiring the required strength.

Features and benefits

Autoclave production of blocks gives them a number of special advantages. Among them:

• high thermal insulation properties (several times better than conventional brick);
• good sound insulation;
• resistance to moisture, mold;
• correct shape, which allows for smooth masonry and finishing;
• ease of processing, speed of installation;
• minimal shrinkage during construction.

Flaws

The disadvantages of autoclave blocks include their certain fragility (it is necessary to handle the material carefully during loading and unloading, transportation and direct installation). Also, to work with such walls, special fasteners are required, ordinary dowels, screws, self-tapping screws - there are no helpers here.

Conclusion. Aerated concrete, “hardened” in an autoclave, is a good and relatively inexpensive alternative to traditional building materials. It is produced in a factory, which provides for quality control of finished blocks. However, as experts note, their installation must be done correctly, in compliance with technology.

Natural hardening

Compound

The composition of non-autoclaved lightweight concrete includes:

• Portland cement;
• sand (pure or with an additive in the form of fly ash remaining after combustion of solid fuel at thermal power plants);
• aluminum powder (as in autoclave production, it is used as a blowing agent);
• calcium chloride (accelerates the hardening process);
• various additives.

Technology

Non-autoclave production assumes the same chemical reaction with the release of bubbles. The resulting mass with pores is also poured into molds, but left to harden on its own, under natural conditions. To give the material greater strength, a steaming chamber is often used. For the same purposes, with a non-autoclave hardening method, “additional mixing” of additives with reinforcing properties (for example, polymer fiber, glass fiber) is also practiced.

Flaws

The finished block has virtually the same properties as an autoclave one, only they differ not in better side. Thus, they have lower thermal insulation properties. It is not so durable, it gives a large value, therefore it is not used in load-bearing structures.

Unlike its “brother” in the class, non-autoclave material does not stand out as ideal geometric shapes– when laying it, the layer of mortar will be thicker, and leveling the surfaces will be more difficult.

To understand the difference between autoclaved concrete and non-autoclaved concrete, it is necessary to consider the main features of both types of aerated concrete. The popularity of aerated concrete in construction is growing every day, which is explained by its positive properties: good strength, low density, high quality, low weight(which generally reduces the cost of foundations and floors), the possibility of laying thin, but warm and reliable walls.

Autoclaved and non-autoclaved concretes differ in their production method and, accordingly, in their performance characteristics. Initially created exclusively in conditions industrial production, but they soon found a way to produce cellular material without additional heat and moisture treatment.

Autoclaved aerated concrete more stable, but non-autoclave involves shrinkage. But if we consider their differences in more detail, it becomes clear: both types of aerated concrete are relevant for repair and construction work, it is important to know their characteristics and choose the right one for specific tasks.

Aerated concrete production technology

Autoclaved and non-autoclaved aerated concrete are produced using the same technology; the differences lie only in the accuracy of the technology and in the final stages of processing the material. The raw materials are used identically and in the same proportion.

• Fine sand 2-2.5 millimeters
• Portland cement grades M300 and M400
• Lime
• Aluminum powder or paste with an active metal content of 90-95%
• Various additives and modifiers (not necessarily introduced, but needed to improve various performance properties)
• Water

First, knead the ordinary cement-sand mortar, pour into a special mold, then add aluminum powder. As a result of the reaction of powder and lime, carbon dioxide appears, due to which the mass increases in volume, swelling and forming a porous structure. The gas release reaction must be completed before the cement sets; to intensify the process, the mold is processed on a vibrating platform. But this process is only relevant for large factories.

In small workshops they create foam concrete, which is a type. After all, according to the method of foam formation, concrete is divided into gas and foam concrete. And if in the first case the foam is created by gas, then in the second - by chemicals.

The cellular structure is created by adding and whipping special chemical foaming agents. Shops are usually small, with a small number of employees, predominantly manual labor. The production of aerated concrete is more expensive, but such a material is also more stable and has better properties.

Further, the production technology of autoclaved and non-autoclaved aerated concrete suggests differences. If autoclaved aerated concrete is produced, after pouring the mixture into the mold and starting the reaction, wait a certain time, allowing the mixture to partially harden and gain sufficient strength to remove the mass from the formwork and cut it into blocks.

The cut blocks are sent to an autoclave and fired at a temperature of +190-200 degrees, the pressure is 8-10 Bar (so that moisture is completely removed from the material). Processing aerated concrete with an autoclave allows you to: accelerate the hardening of the material, increase its strength characteristics, reduce shrinkage in the future, make the structure homogeneous, and improve the geometry of the finished blocks.

Non-autoclaved aerated concrete gains strength not in the oven, but in natural environment– without exposure to temperature and pressure to evaporate moisture. Moreover, often for production of this type The material is not used in large molds with further cutting of gas blocks, but in molds for casting individual elements.

Autoclaved and non-autoclaved aerated concrete are produced in accordance with the following regulatory documents: GOST 21520 "", GOST 25485 "Cellular concrete", as well as GOST 31360 and GOST 32359.

Properties of non-autoclaved and autoclaved aerated concrete

Autoclaved and non-autoclaved aerated concrete – completely different materials at the exit. They differ as appearance(therefore, you can immediately determine by eye what kind of concrete is in front of you), and by performance characteristics.

External indicators

Blocks of a cellular structure, cut from solid wood, are usually distinguished by greater compliance with the design dimensions. They make masonry easier, less time, effort and materials are spent on sealing the seams, the thickness of the inter-masonry joints is much smaller (and cold bridges, respectively), and the finishing of the building is simpler.

Non-autoclaved aerated concrete turns out gray, while autoclaved aerated concrete turns out almost white. If the shade is uneven and various inclusions are visible in the structure, most likely the quality of such material is not very good.

The production of non-autoclaved aerated concrete is often carried out practically in artisanal conditions - the concrete is simply mixed, formwork is used for pouring, and after hardening in natural conditions, the material is supplied for construction. All this negatively affects the quality of the final material and its basic properties.

Physical and mechanical properties

Autoclaved aerated concrete shows a density of D400-800, the compressive strength is in the range of B1.5-B5, but non-autoclaved aerated concrete gives a maximum strength of B3. On walls made of fired blocks, you can attach shelves and cabinets, air conditioners, speakers and other devices that non-autoclaved aerated concrete is not always able to withstand.

One of the main differences between the materials is shrinkage - unfired aerated concrete contains moisture, which causes cracks to appear on the walls. And density plays an important role - as it decreases, the shrinkage coefficient during residual strength increases. The process lasts about 5-10 years. Autoclaved aerated concrete shrinks by approximately 0.5 mm/mm, unburnt - by 2-3 mm/m.

Thermal conductivity indicators also vary - the property depends on the density: the lower the density, the more heat-intensive the material. To reduce the thermal conductivity of walls, it is best to choose aerated concrete with high strength and lower density.

Differences: pros and cons of materials

Autoclaved aerated concrete blocks differ quite noticeably in various indicators from material that has not been fired. Due to their different properties, blocks are used to perform different tasks; they are relevant for certain types construction. Before using a particular material in your work, you first need to study all the specifications, advantages and disadvantages.

Strength

Naturally hardened aerated concrete is less durable, especially if it is completely fresh. It takes a lot of time to gain strength. But an autoclave for aerated concrete helps speed up the process of strength gain (it speeds up hundreds of times), so after steam treatment at high temperatures, the strength of autoclaved concrete is one and a half to two times higher than its counterpart without firing.

So, for example, autoclave brands D500 and D600 demonstrate a strength indicator at the level of B2.0-B3.5, a non-autoclave of a similar brand will, at best, give class B2.

Block geometry

During the construction process, the evenness of the blocks and their compliance with the specified parameters are very important. Regardless of what kind of object is being built (a bathhouse, a garage or a residential building), the quality of the masonry is higher, the more accurately the blocks are made. Indeed, if something happens, the difference in level is leveled out with glue or mortar, cold bridges are created, and the thermal insulation properties are reduced.

Thick seams negatively affect shrinkage during the process and cracks may appear. To avoid this, the difference in levels is removed, the usual hand saw. But the time and labor costs in this case are simply enormous. It is much easier and cheaper to immediately buy smooth autoclaved aerated concrete and build a building from it.

Uniformity of structure

The uniformity of the structure is determined by the number of bubbles in the material and the uniformity of their distribution. The more homogeneous the material, the better it is - this has a positive effect on quality. Autoclaved aerated concrete blocks have a more uniform structure, since they are created quickly, harden immediately, and then the masses are cut into individual blocks.

Non-autoclaved aerated concrete is produced differently - foam and gas-forming agents may not be distributed evenly: often bubbles float up, heavy elements fall down. This has a bad effect on construction - strength decreases in places large cluster bubbles, cold bridges appear in places with a small number of bubbles. Characteristics are unstable.

Possibility of fastening

Autoclaved aerated concrete is a durable material onto which even very heavy devices and elements can be attached. It is possible to mount facades made of light expanded clay or even heavy porcelain stoneware. Thus, a 10x100 anchor can easily withstand an axle pullout load of about 700 kilograms. That is, you can attach shelves, cabinets, boilers, air conditioners, without fear that all this will fall with a piece of the wall and fasteners.

Non-autoclaved aerated concrete is much less durable - sometimes you can even press screws or nails into it by hand. No mechanical fasteners are used; lightweight objects are secured with an expensive two-component chemical anchor.

Drying shrinkage

When choosing autoclaved blocks for masonry, you can hope for minimal shrinkage during the process. Under firing conditions, concrete has already gained strength and gives a shrinkage rate of a maximum of 0.5 mm/m, while non-autoclaved aerated concrete gives about 5 mm/m - the difference is significant.

Severe shrinkage of buildings made of non-autoclaved aerated concrete can cause a lot of troubles - cracking of masonry, appearance of cracks, peeling of finishing and plaster. This can continue for several years until the concrete takes on all its strength.

Environmental friendliness

Autoclaved aerated concrete is absolutely environmentally friendly, allows air to pass through well, allows the building to breathe and helps create an optimal microclimate. Aerated concrete is created from mineral raw materials, so it is not afraid of rotting, moisture and mold.

In the case of the production of non-autoclaved aerated concrete, chemical additives are used to form foam, which already reduces the level of safety of its operation. Often, chemical components are introduced into a block with fiber impregnated with special thiocyanates, chlorides and acids, which is even more dangerous, since these substances can be released and accumulate in the air of the home over time.

Thermal insulation properties

Heat retention characteristics directly depend on density. There it is best performance demonstrates foam concrete, the disadvantage of using it in construction is its low strength. For laying walls they use more dense materials– the density kg/m3 must be at least 700 kilograms per cubic meter. And if you use non-autoclaved aerated concrete of such a density, then due to the cold bridges of thick joints, the characteristics are further reduced.

Autoclaved aerated concrete provides the same properties, but with a smaller wall thickness and with smaller cold bridges, which ultimately provides better performance.

We can conclude that autoclaved aerated concrete is superior to non-autoclaved blocks in many areas and indicators. It's about both about geometry and physical and mechanical properties. Autoclave units are created in a factory environment, with strict adherence to regulations and compliance with standards. It is easier and simpler to build from such concrete, the buildings are more durable and of higher quality. Completely safe and environmentally friendly material withstands any load and guarantees the best performance properties of the structure.

Aerated concrete is popular construction material, the main scope of which is the construction of buildings with a height of 1-3 floors. Low density and high thermal resistance make it possible to build walls from aerated blocks, the weight of which is 3-4 times lower than the weight of similar brick walls. Today, this is the only building material suitable for the construction of durable and warm walls minimum thickness.

This article discusses two types of aerated concrete - natural and autoclave hardening materials. We will study their raw material composition and production technology, get acquainted with the differences, advantages and disadvantages, and also determine which cellular concrete is better.

Autoclaved aerated concrete is superior to natural hardening material in all performance characteristics. Let's look at its main advantages:

1. Stable quality. The production of autoclaved aerated concrete is possible only in conditions large production, while a non-autoclave analogue can be made even at home, which is why blocks of dubious quality often end up on the market.
2. Strength. Autoclaved aerated concrete is produced in densities D400-800, its compressive strength varies between B1.5-B5, while the maximum strength of non-autoclaved material does not exceed B3. On a wall made of thermally hardened blocks, you can mount not only cabinets and shelves, but also heavier objects - speakers, air conditioners, the weight of which non-autoclaved cellular concrete cannot withstand.
3. No shrinkage during operation. Shrinkage associated with the evaporation of moisture contained in the material is the main reason for the appearance of cracks on walls made of aerated blocks. The lower the density of the material, the more it shrinks during the process of residual strength gain, which continues for 5-10 years after the production of the blocks. Atoclaved aerated concrete shrinks by an average of 0.5 m/mm, while non-autoclaved aerated concrete shrinks by 2-3 mm/m.
4. Geometry. Blocks cut from solid wood always have smaller deviations from the design dimensions than products formed by injection molding methods in separate molds. Size mismatch cellular concrete natural hardening leads to an increase in the thickness of masonry joints (cold bridges are formed) and problems when finishing the building facade.

For comparison, here are the characteristics of both materials:

In aggregate operational characteristics for the construction of residential buildings it is much better to use autoclaved aerated concrete, while its analogue can be used for the construction technical buildings- garages, animal sheds, gazebos. The difference in the price of materials is about 15-20%.

About 90 large factories and countless small enterprises are engaged in the production of cellular concrete in Russia. Among the verified suppliers, we note the following companies:

• Aerok;
• Bonolite;
• AeroStone.

The largest manufacturer in Russia is Aerok, whose supply volume exceeds 400 thousand m 3 of aerated concrete throughout the year. It was Aerok who introduced into circulation blocks with strength B2.5 and density D400 in 2005, which subsequently became the standard in the field of low-rise construction.

The company's product range includes the following types of blocks:

• thermal insulation: EcoTerm (D400) and EcoTerm + (D300);
• structural: Classic (D500) and Hard (D600);
• lintels and U-shaped blocks.

The company supplies all common block sizes. The quality of its products is confirmed by full compliance production process requirements of GOST No. 31360.

As an analogue to Aeroc aerated concrete, it makes sense to consider the products of Bonolit, the second most popular manufacturer in Russia. First of all, the company is known for its line of autoclaved aerated concrete Bonolit40, which is designed specifically for the Russian climate and performs ideally at temperatures from -40 to +40. In addition to supplying products, the company offers turnkey construction services for cellular concrete houses.