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Autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC) blocks are alternative masonry units for traditional clay bricks. AAC blocks differ in size, strength, and durability from clay bricks.
This article explores the differences between AAC blocks and bricks, including their key features, pros, and cons.
Difference Between AAC Blocks and Clay Bricks
Clay bricks are made from clay (alumina), sand, lime, iron oxide, and magnesia. | AAC blocks are made from a mixture of fly ash, lime, cement, gypsum, and aeration agent. |
Clay bricks are red and smaller than AAC blocks. | AAC blocks are gray and manufactured in a bigger size. |
The top layer of soil is used for manufacturing bricks. Hence, it is not eco-friendly. | Fly ash used for manufacturing AAC blocks is a non-toxic waste product recovered from thermal power plants. Hence, AAC blocks are eco-friendly. |
Clay bricks are heavy (2.5 to 7.5 kg). Therefore, they increase the dead load of the main structure. | AAC blocks are lighter than traditional bricks (3 to 4 kg), which reduces the dead load of the structure. |
The dry density of red clay bricks varies between 1600 kg/m3 to 1920 kg/m3. | The dry density of red clay bricks varies between 451 kg/m3 to 1000 kg/m3. |
The compressive strength of red clay bricks is in the range of 2.5 to 3.5 N/mm2. | AAC blocks offer a compressive strength of 3 to 4.5 N/mm2. |
Clay bricks are less stable against earthquake forces. | AAC block bricks are more stable against earthquake forces in comparison to clay brick structures. |
Brick construction is time-consuming due to smaller bricks and more joints. | AAC blocks achieve speedy construction due to their bigger size, low weight, and fewer joints. |
A dense brick masonry wall structure provides good sound insulation properties. | The presence of air voids in AAC blocks and its lightweight structure provides good sound reduction compared to red bricks. |
Clay bricks are not termite resistant as they are made from organic materials. | AAC blocks are made from inorganic and insect-resistant materials that prevent termite attacks. |
The thermal conductivity of clay bricks varies between 6 to 1 W/mK. | The thermal conductivity of AAC blocks varies between 0.21 to 0.42 W/mK. Hence, more thermal-resistant blocks are obtained. |
Compared to traditional clay bricks, AAC blocks are an all-weather construction material that offer superior performance and durability.
FAQs
The dry density of red clay bricks varies between 1600 kg/m3 to 1920 kg/m3. The dry density of red clay bricks varies between 451 kg/m3 to 1000 kg/m3.
AAC blocks are made from inorganic and insect-resistant materials that prevent termite attacks.
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