Light Weight Concrete Blocks

LIGHTWEIGHT CONCRETE BLOCKS

A lightweight concrete block is a concrete masonry unit made of expanded aggregate to reduce the density and weight compared to standard concrete block.

These blocks are produced in greater volume but are less strong than other concrete blocks. They can be used in both internal and external walls where loading is slightly limited. They are also used as infill blocks in beam and for block flooring. Also these blocks are made in a standard texture finish providing an excellent surface for mortar works, rendering and plastering works. Light weight concrete blocks weighs less than 20kg and is available in a variety of sizes like 440 x 100 x 215 mm, 300 × 275 × 140mm, and 300 x 250 x 140mm:

Lightweight concrete blocks are manufactured from cement and expanded aggregates such as granulated or foamed blast-furnace slag, expanded clay or shale, furnace bottom ash, pulverized fuel ash or the less common volcanic pumice. The density of the aggregate used is generally proportional to the strength of the light weight concrete block. Super-lightweight aggregates like expanded clay and pumice used for their excellent thermal performance feature a relatively low compressive strength. Average compressive strength of standard high quality lightweight block is 3.6N/mm².

Lightweight concrete blocks are perfect for commercial and leisure developments, providing an even surface for paint and other finishes, with excellent resistance to air permeability. These blocks have high-level performance in load-bearing and other structural applications. They can be used in external applications as well as a versatile range of internal applications. The main advantage of lightweight concrete blocks over dense aggregate blocks is a combination of higher insulating properties and a lighter block unit weight. The lightweight block enables time and material cost savings through easier handling than larger units or a different block type with the same dimensions.

Lightweight or ultra lightweight concrete blocks may also be applied to a different technology known as aerated autoclaved cement (AAC) block. AAC block entrains air/gas in the concrete and produces a much lighter block. These blocks have a variable density 1/2 to 2/3 weight reductions compared to standard concrete. AAC block is most commonly used for interior walls and structures of two stories or less. This may also be used in large panels, and has improved insulating characteristics.