1. Raw Materials and Production Process

• Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (AAC) Blocks

• Raw Materials: Silica-based materials (fly ash, sand), calcium-based materials (lime, cement), aluminum powder (foaming agent), and water.

• Production: Cured in autoclaves under high-temperature and high-pressure conditions (180–200°C, 8–12 bar) to create a closed-cell porous structure via hydrogen gas release.

• Key Feature: Uniform, stable closed-cell pores.

• Non-Autoclaved Lightweight Blocks

• Raw Materials: Cement, aggregates (slag, ceramsite, crushed bricks), and optional foaming agents (e.g., hydrogen peroxide) or lightweight fillers.

• Production: Cured naturally or with low-pressure steam, relying on chemical reactions or physical foaming to form pores.

• Key Feature: Simpler process and lower energy consumption, but pores may be uneven.

2. Performance Characteristics

3. Cost and Construction

• Production Cost:

• AAC: Higher initial investment and energy consumption (autoclaving), but highly industrialized.

• Non-Autoclaved: Lower energy use and simpler equipment, suitable for small-scale production.

• Construction:

• AAC: Lightweight, easy to cut, requires specialized adhesives.

• Non-Autoclaved: Heavier, often uses conventional mortar, slower construction.

  
  

4. Applications

• AAC Blocks:

• High-rise buildings (partition walls, insulated facades, fire-rated walls).

• Projects prioritizing lightweight design, thermal/acoustic insulation.

• Non-Autoclaved Blocks:

• Low-rise buildings, rural housing, temporary structures.

• Cost-sensitive projects with lower performance requirements.

  
  

5. Environmental Impact

• AAC: Utilizes industrial waste (e.g., fly ash) but energy-intensive production.

• Non-Autoclaved: May incorporate recycled aggregates (e.g., construction waste) but lower durability limits reuse.

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Summary

• AAC Blocks: Premium performance for high-standard projects.

• Non-Autoclaved Blocks: Economical choice for basic applications.
  Selection depends on budget, performance needs, and long-term durability requirements.

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