Modern building technologies propose different types of cement blocks to build residential and industrial buildings. In this article, we mentioned the most common concrete block architecture, its pros, and its cons. Follow the reading to know everything about block walling, the different types of blocks in the construction, and what are concrete walls used for!
1.The Diversity Of Construction Blocks
Aerated Concrete blocks
Aerated Concrete blocks are the most frequently chosen for building blockwork. Its feature: closed pores. As a result, these concrete building block types don’t moisturize the water. In the production of the aerated concrete blocks, organic materials are used: aluminum powder, portland cement, water, quartz sand, etc. There is also a classification of the different types of blocks for building:
- Thermal insulation.
- Structural insulation.
- Structural.
This type of cement block could be produced in fabric as well as in-house conditions. The correct proportions of materials provide the correct forms, lightweight, and strong toughness of the block.
Cellular Concrete Blocks
Block concrete walls from cellular concrete are made of blowing agents, sand, cement, and water. Such blocks are made according to cutting technology. Compared to the previous one, it has got almost the same characteristics but is inferior in toughness. Take into account this fact because such blocks are completely lightweight, so, you can build a three-floored building at a maximum.
Ceramic Blocks
The ceramic blocks consist of the same materials as a brick: water and clay. It’s bigger and lighter than a traditional one in twice. The concrete block structure of the ceramic blocks is much more pored, however, it’s not an obstacle for the building even skyscrapers from it.
Arbolite Blocks
If you aren’t a specialist in the area of building construction, this type of block may hear for the first time. Arbolite blocks are made from cement and wood. During the production of the absolute blocks, the wood chips are combined with a mix of cement and sand. Such strong contents are produced from the arbolite blocks:
- Isolation plates.
- On-site feeling mixtures.
- Masonry blocks.
- Large-format mounting units.
Except for the basic raw materials in arbolete blocks are used the chemical supplements here are used and are having the functions of toughness and water-repelling promotions.
As a result of the chemical processing, the wood becomes stronger and gets the same level of adhesion as crushed stone or gravel.
Expanded Clay Concrete Blocks
This type of concrete block wall is made according to the method of vibratory casting. Among the most common row materials: are cement, clay, sand, or dolomite. According to the contents and its proportion, the standard block weight is in a period of 19-46Ib. Such kinds of blocks are used for the building construction of walls and the basement of houses with three floors. Nonetheless, commonly it is utilized for partitions, frame buildings, fences, outbuildings, etc.
2. Comparison Of The Different Construction Blocks
All types of wall blocks could be used in buildings, however, there are also some cautions, restrictions, and recommendations. Therefore, below we will present the main ones:
- Strength.
- Environmental friendliness.
- Fire safety.
- Frost resistance.
- Thermal conductivity and degree of need for insulation.
- Steam and air permeability.
- Contraction.
- Need to reinforce the masonry.
- Requirements for the type of foundation.
- Type of slab and need for armored.
- Need for outdoor finishing materials.
- Cost of units.
- Masonry cost.
The generals about the construction blocks are mentioned in a table:
| The block type | Density,
Ib/ ft3 |
Weight in a wall | Water absorption, % | Thermal conduction | Frost resistance | Strength |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aerated Concrete Blocks | 300-1200 | 100-900 | 20-25 | 0,1-0,4 | 35 | 0,5-25 |
| Cellular Concrete Blocks | 300-1200 | 100-900 | 10-16 | 0,1-0,4 | 35 | 0,25-12,5 |
| Expanded Clay Concrete Blocks | 300-1500 | 900-1000 | 50 | 0,15-0,45 | 25-75 | 50-150 |
| Arbolite Blocks | 500-900 | 300-700 | 75-85 | 0,2 – 0,3 | 25 | 20-50 |
| Ceramic Blocks | 700-900 | 600-800 | 12-15 | 0,1-0,2 | 50 | 2,5- 25 |