Gas silicate building blocks are building material universal meaning. It is an artificial porous stone. This structure is formed through natural chemical reaction between aluminum and lime. During the reaction, these two components break down and form hydrogen.
Gas silicate blocks pass heat treatment(up to +190°C) under a pressure of 10-12 bar. Thanks to this material, additional strength is imparted and thermal conductivity and frost resistance are improved.
was developed in Sweden at the beginning of the last century, but gained popularity only recently. It has undergone virtually no changes over time, which speaks of its convenience, simplicity and reliability.
Types of gas silicate blocks
All gas silicate blocks can be divided into three types:
Aerated concrete is an artificial stone. Its array contains closed air cells no more than 3 mm in diameter. The main components are: sand, cement, a set of gas-forming components. Air pores significantly increase its thermal conductivity.
Foam concrete- This is a material similar to aerated concrete. The differences are in the production method. Cells are formed due to the introduction of foaming additives. The main components are: quartz, lime and cement.
Gas silicate– a building material formed by autoclave hardening. Its components are: crushed sand and lime, aluminum powder. Lighter in weight and best performance thermal conductivity.
Video about what you need to know about gas silicate blocks as a building material:
Classification by area of application
Wall blocks Designed for laying walls with minimal seams. In the manufacturing process of this material, new technologies are used, which include the use of cement, quartz sand, water and lime. Aluminum powder is used to form pores.
Depending on the density of the material, they can be used both for insulation (density 350 kg/m3) and for low-rise construction (400-500 kg/m3). Wall blocks are larger in size, which reduces material and labor costs.
Today it is a very common occurrence. Such a high popularity of gas silicate blocks is due to their low cost and thermal conductivity, which allows for energy-efficient buildings.
Partition blocks can be used for the construction of partitions and walls. For interior walls apartments, blocks 10 centimeters thick are suitable. The height and width of 100 mm blocks are not significant.
Average sizes of partition blocks for interior walls 200*200*400mm, there are also very thin blocks with a thickness of 50 mm.
They are easy to install and have a number of advantages:
- Good sound and thermal insulation properties;
- Cost-effective;
- Light weight;
- Low cost.
In addition to the advantages, these blocks also have disadvantages:
- Difficulty in processing;
- Low strength;
- High costs for further operation.
This is only a small part of such a building material as gas silicate. In this article you can get acquainted with a more detailed list.
Types of blocks depending on size and strength categories
- Dry laying using glue. Blocks with 1 accuracy category allow deviations: in size up to 1.5 mm; in straightness of edges and edges – up to 2 mm; broken corners – up to 2 mm; broken ribs – no more than 5 mm. ( Standard size gas silicate block 600x400x200)
- Laying with glue. Blocks of the 2nd category of accuracy can differ in size by up to 2 mm, have deviations from the straightness and squareness of edges and faces up to 3 mm, broken corners - up to 2 mm, and edges - up to 5 mm.
- Mortar laying. Accuracy category 3 can have deviations from the block dimensions of up to 3 mm, rectangularity and straightness - up to 4 mm, broken edges - up to 10 mm, and corners - up to 2 mm.
Tongue-and-groove silicate blocks, unlike smooth surfaces, have hand grips. Their scope of application: monolithic frame construction, as well as the construction of multi-storey buildings.
When laying, they have a thermal locking function and a guiding function. This system construction can save on adhesive solution.
The picture shows tongue-and-groove gas silicate blocks 
Composition of gas silicates
The main component in the production of gas silicate blocks is lime. And therefore, increased demands are placed on it: activity and purity of the composition. The final result directly depends on the quality of this component.
In addition to lime, gas silicate blocks include a mixture of quartz sand, water, cement and aluminum powder. The last component reacts with calcium oxide hydrate, carrying out the process of gas formation. Gas bubbles begin to form even in the initial stages of production, right up to the placement of blocks in autoclaves.
In many ways, the composition and production technology determine the future and operational properties of gas silicate blocks.
Gas silicate grades
Structural grades reflect the purpose of gas silicate blocks:
- D1000-D1200 – designed for the construction of residential, industrial and public buildings and structures;
- D200-D500 – for insulation of building structures;
- D500-D900 – structural and thermal insulation products;
- D700 – wall products using the autoclave method.
Depending on the density of the material, gas silicate blocks can be used for the construction of low-rise buildings and multi-storey buildings (up to 9 floors) and differ in the following grades:
- 200-350 – thermal insulation materials;
- 400-600 – for carriers and non-carriers load-bearing walls in low-rise construction;
- 500-700 – for buildings and structures with a height of no more than 3 floors;
- 700 and above – for multi-storey construction using reinforcement.
Regardless of the brand of blocks, before you start building walls made of gas silicate, you need to know the features and.
Gas silicate or foam block
Both of these building materials have the same origin: concrete solution and porous structure. There are differences in the technology for the appearance of bubbles. During the production of foam concrete, bubbles are formed by the interaction of aluminum dust and lime, which release hydrogen.
And the porous structure of gas silicates is achieved by adding a special foaming agent. Both materials harden faster than the air leaves their structure. If in the first option the bubbles try to leave the mixture and rise up, then in the other case they are held by the foaming agent.
When its action stops, the bubbles burst and compact the structure. Therefore, both materials differ in hygroscopicity. It is easier for moisture to get into foam concrete than into gas silicate.
Foam block, unlike gas silicate, has a perfectly smooth surface. It is more difficult for moisture to penetrate into it. If we compare blocks with the same strength, then gas silicate will have less weight. This is explained by its greater porosity.
Table 1
Gas block and gas silicate
A gas block is an artificial stone having cells with a diameter of 1 to 3 mm. They are evenly distributed throughout the entire structure of the material. It is the degree of uniformity of these bubbles that affects the quality of the final material. When producing aerated concrete blocks, the basis is cement with autoclave or natural hardening.
Gas silicate is a material based on lime. In addition to it, the composition includes: sand, water and gas-forming additives. The blocks are autoclaved. The mixture for gas silicate is poured into a mold and undergoes furnace heat treatment, after which the finished block is cut with a string into smaller blocks of the required size.
Aerated blocks have a lower noise insulation coefficient. If gas silicate absorbs moisture and its structure suffers as a result, then the gas block passes it through itself, creating a comfortable microclimate in the room.
Due to their uniform porosity, gas silicate blocks are more durable. And they are more expensive than less durable gas blocks.
Table 2
Gas silicate blocks or expanded clay blocks
Important advantages of gas silicate blocks are safety: environmental and technical. The low coefficient of thermal conductivity allows you to withstand contact with natural phenomena and fire, and at the same time retain heat even in severe frosts.
The absence of radioactive substances, heavy metals and other components hazardous to life and health in gas silicate blocks allows the construction of any buildings without fear for one’s health. The strength of the blocks makes it possible to erect 2-3 storey buildings.
But, despite its advantages, gas silicate has a competitor - expanded clay concrete. Its tongue-and-groove structure makes it possible to lay out walls without seams. Such construction eliminates the occurrence of cold bridges and saves adhesive solution.
The porous structure of expanded clay blocks retains heat in the room better than gas silicate blocks. And in terms of frost resistance, it is 15 cycles more than that of competitive material. The cost of these materials is almost equal.
Gas silicate and expanded clay blocks have almost equal physical and chemical properties. They are unrivaled compared to wood and brick - this is also shown by statistics on developers. Gas silicate blocks are more in demand on the building materials market due to their availability and low cost.
Gas silicate blocks are in great demand in residential and industrial construction. This building material is superior to concrete, brick, natural wood etc. It is made from environmentally friendly raw materials and is lightweight, fire-resistant, easy to operate and transport. Application of this lightweight material allows you to reduce the cost of arranging a heavy reinforced foundation and thereby reduce the cost of building construction.
What are gas silicate blocks
Gas silicate block is a lightweight and durable wall material made from cellular concrete. The products have a porous internal structure, which has a positive effect on their heat and sound insulation properties. Such building material can be used in various fields construction industry - for the construction of country houses and country houses, car garages, utility buildings, warehouse complexes, etc.
How gas silicate blocks are produced
There are two main technologies for the production of gas silicate building blocks.
- Non-autoclave. With this production method, the working mixture hardens under natural conditions. Non-autoclaved gas silicate blocks have a lower cost, but have some important differences from autoclaved ones. Firstly, they are less durable. Secondly, when they dry, shrinkage occurs almost 5 times more intense than in the case of autoclaved products.
- Autoclave. Autoclave production of gas silicate requires more energy and material resources, which increases the final cost of the products. Manufacturing is carried out at a certain pressure (0.8-1.2 MPa) and temperature (up to 200 degrees Celsius). The finished products are more durable and resistant to shrinkage.
Types of blocks
Depending on density, composition and functional purpose Gas silicate blocks are divided into three main categories.
- Structural. They have high strength characteristics. The density of the products is at least 700 kg/m3. They are used in the construction of high-rise buildings (up to three floors). Capable of withstanding large mechanical loads. Thermal conductivity is 0.18-0.2 W/(m °C).
- Structural and thermal insulation. Blocks with a density of 500-700 kg/m 3 are used in the construction of load-bearing walls in low-rise buildings. They are distinguished by a balanced ratio of strength and thermal insulation characteristics [(0.12-0.18 W/(m °C)].
- Thermal insulation. They are distinguished by increased thermal insulation properties [(0.08-0.1 W/(m ° C)]. Due to their low density (less than 400 kg/m 3), they are not suitable for creating load-bearing walls, therefore they are used exclusively for insulation.
Dimensions and weight
Wall blocks made of gas silicate have standard dimensions of 600 x 200 x 300 mm. The overall dimensions of the semi-blocks are 600 x 100 x 300 mm. Depending on the manufacturing company, product sizes may vary slightly: 500 x 200 x 300, 588 x 300 x 288 mm, etc.
The mass of one block depends on its density:
- structural blocks weigh 20-40 kg, half-blocks - 10-16 kg;
- structural and thermal insulation blocks and semi-blocks - 17-30 kg and 9-13 kg, respectively;
- heat-insulating blocks weigh 14-21 kg, half-blocks - 5-10 kg.
Composition of gas silicate blocks
Gas silicate is an environmentally friendly building material that is made from non-toxic raw materials of natural origin. The blocks contain cement, sand, lime and water. Aluminum chips are used as a foaming agent, which helps to increase the void ratio of the blocks. Also in the production of the material, a surfactant is used - sulfonol C.
Material characteristics
Building blocks made of gas silicate have the following characteristics.
- Heat capacity. Products manufactured using autoclave technology have a thermal conductivity coefficient of 1 kJ/(kg °C).
- Thermal conductivity. Structural and thermal insulating gas silicate has an average thermal conductivity of about 0.14 W/(m °C), while for reinforced concrete this parameter reaches 2.04.
- Sound absorption. Gas silicate blocks significantly reduce the amplitude of external noise; the sound absorption index for this material is 0.2.
- Frost resistance. Material with a density of 600 kg/m 3 can withstand up to 35 freezing and thawing cycles (which corresponds to the F35 index). Products with a higher density are assigned frost resistance class F50.
Advantages and disadvantages of gas silicate blocks
The main advantages of gas silicate are the following.
- Ease. Gas silicate blocks weigh almost 5 times less than concrete products of the same size. It makes it easier construction work and allows you to reduce the cost of transporting building materials.
- Effective heat and sound insulation. Due to the presence of internal micropores, high heat and noise insulation characteristics of gas silicate are achieved. This allows you to create a comfortable indoor microclimate.
- Environmental friendliness. The building materials do not contain dangerous toxins and carcinogens that can cause harm environment and human health.
- Fire resistance. Gas silicate is made from non-flammable raw materials, therefore it does not collapse under intense heating and does not contribute to the spread of flame in a fire.
How critical are the shortcomings?
Like any other building material, gas silicate has some disadvantages.
- Low safety factor. Material with low density (300-400 kg/m3) has relatively low strength characteristics. Therefore, during construction it is imperative to carry out work on reinforcing the walls.
- Smooth surfaces. The front parts of gas silicate blocks have a smooth surface with a low roughness coefficient. Because of this, adhesion with finishing materials, which complicates the process of finishing walls with plaster and other coatings.
- Low moisture resistance. Due to the increased porosity, the material is sensitive to high humidity. Water and water vapor penetrate the internal micropores and, when frozen, increase in volume, destroying the blocks from the inside. Therefore, walls made of gas silicate require additional waterproofing.
Where are gas silicate blocks used?
Gas silicate blocks are used in residential and industrial construction. This material is used not only for construction load-bearing elements buildings, but also to increase thermal insulation, as well as to protect utility networks(in particular, heating ones).
The scope of application of gas silicate is determined by its characteristics, primarily density.
- Products whose density is 300-400 kg/m 3 have a low safety margin, so they are used primarily for wall insulation.
- Gas silicate with a density of 400 kg/m 3 is suitable for the construction one-story houses, garages, service and outbuildings. Due to its higher strength, the material is able to withstand significant loads.
- Blocks with a density of 500 kg/m 3 are optimal in terms of strength and thermal insulation properties. They are often used to build cottages, country houses and other buildings up to 3 floors high.
The most durable are gas silicate blocks with a density of 700 kg/m 3. They are used for the construction of high-rise residential and industrial buildings. But due to the increased density, the porosity coefficient of the material decreases and, consequently, its thermal insulation properties. Therefore, walls built from such blocks require additional insulation.
The process of building and testing blocks.
Gas silicate blocks are a type of wall material made of cellular concrete.
In prepared concrete mixture special pore-forming additives are added. In the 19th century, ox blood was mixed in to achieve this effect.
In the early 30s, the Soviet builder Bryushkov drew attention to a plant growing in Central Asia - soap root.
The cement solution, when mixed with the foam of this plant, gained the ability to foam and increase in volume, and when hardened, it retained the resulting porous structure.
Then, various chemical gas-forming additives began to be added. Unfortunately, we have not patented this production method. artificial stone. This was done by the Swedish architect Ericsson in 1924.
Composition of gas silicate blocks
Blocks made from gas silicate mixtures are a wall material that allows you to create a healthy indoor microclimate, as it has good diffusion characteristics. That is, the building “breathes”, which eliminates the appearance of mold. What initial components are taken to make blocks?
The aerated concrete mixture, according to SN 277-80 “Instructions for the manufacture of products from cellular concrete” consists of:
- Portland cement, manufactured in accordance with GOST 10178-76, with a calcium silicate content of at least 50%., tricalcium aluminate not more than 6%. The addition of tripoli is not allowed.
- Sand must meet the requirements of GOST 8736-77, clay and silt inclusions no more than 2%, quartz content no less than 85%.
- Water with technical requirements according to GOST 23732-79.
- Calcium lime-lime must comply with GOST 9179-77, and be at least grade 3. Additional characteristics: extinguishing speed 5-15 min., “burnout” - no more than 2%, CaO + MgO content - no less than 70%.
- The gas generator used is aluminum powder PAP-1 or PAP-2
- Surfactant (surfactant) – sulfonol C.
Types and characteristics
According to the manufacturing method, gas silicate is divided into:
- Non-autoclaved – the working mixture hardens under natural conditions. This way you can get more cheap material, but such blocks will have worse strength characteristics, and drying shrinkage is five times higher than that of an autoclave product.
- Autoclaved — blocks with increased strength and shrinkage upon drying. Autoclave production is energy-intensive and technologically advanced. The steaming of the produced gas silicate takes place at a pressure of 0.8-1.2 MPa and a temperature of 175-200ºС, which large enterprises can afford. You need to remember this when purchasing gas silicate blocks.
Counting percentage ingredients in the aerated concrete mixture, you can obtain different characteristics of the gas silicate. For example, by adding Portland cement, we increase strength and frost resistance (by reducing the number of “dangerous pores”), but worsen the thermal conductivity of the product.
The main physical and mechanical properties of the blocks:
1. Based on density, gas silicate blocks are divided into the following types:
- Structural: grade D700 and higher. Used for the construction of buildings high number of storeys– up to three floors.
- Structural and thermal insulation: brands D500, D600, D700. Can be used to construct partitions and load-bearing walls of low-rise buildings. However, it should be noted that some manufacturers’ D500 brand products are classified as thermal insulation types.
- Thermal insulation: no higher than grade D400. This type of gas block is intended for the thermal insulation contour of load-bearing walls built from more durable materials.
It should be mentioned that professional practitioners advise: use wall construction with load-bearing frame, if it is assumed that the future house will have more than two floors. It's probably worth heeding this advice.
2. The thermal conductivity indicator depends on the purpose of the block:
- Structural grades have thermal conductivity from 0.18 to 0.20 W/m·°C, which is lower than those of clay bricks.
- Structural and thermal insulation – from 0.12 to 0.18 W/m·°C.
- Thermal insulation - from 0.08 to 0.10 W/m·°C. If we compare it with the thermal conductivity of wood (0.11 to 0.19 W/m °C), then the primacy will go to the gas block.
It must be remembered that this indicator refers to completely dry material. When wet, this characteristic worsens.
3. The frost resistance of gas silicate blocks depends on the characteristics of the cellular structure, which is divided into three classes:
- Reserve – pore volume with a diameter of more than 200 microns
- Safe – pore volume with a diameter of less than 0.1 microns
- Hazardous – from 200 to 0.1 microns
If the ratio of the reserve volume to the dangerous volume is more than 0.09, then the aerated concrete block will have high frost resistance. The frost resistance of gas blocks is quite high. It is equal to: 15, 25, 35 cycles. Some manufacturers claim 50, 75 and even 100 cycles. Like, for example, the Saratov plant, which produces YTONG blocks.
But we must take into account that GOST 25485-89 standardized brands for frost resistance starting from D500, and this figure was no higher than F35.
Therefore, it is advisable to be careful about the frost resistance of their products declared by manufacturers. One might wonder about the meaning of the above relationship.
Dimensions and weight
Based on their intended purpose, gas silicate blocks are divided into:
- Wall block. Standard size of gas silicate block: 600×200×300 mm (length; depth; height)
- Wall semi-block. Its size: 600×100×300 mm.
- The dimensions of gas silicate, depending on the manufacturer, can vary significantly: 500×200×300 mm; 588×150×288 mm; 588×300×288 mm; 600×250×400 mm; 600×250×250 mm, etc.
How much does a gas silicate block weigh? Its weight, naturally, depends on the density and volumetric characteristics of the gas silicate:
- Structural weight wall block equals 20 kg - 40 kg. Half block – from 10 kg to 16 kg.
- The weight of the structural and thermal insulation block is from 17 kg to 30 kg. Half block – from 9 kg to 13 kg.
- The weight of the thermal insulation block ranges from 14 kg to 21 kg. Half block – from 5 kg to 10 kg.
Advantages and disadvantages
Advantages of gas silicate blocks:
- Low density (light weight), exerts little pressure on the foundation of house construction. Allows you to reduce construction time, reduce labor and transportation costs.
- Low thermal conductivity. It is three times lower than that of clay brick.
- High sound insulation. It is 10 times higher than that of brickwork.
- The geometry of the products is almost ideal, which allows masonry to be carried out using special adhesives.
- Relatively low cost.
- Excellent fire-resistant properties.
- Create a healthy indoor microclimate.
Disadvantages of gas silicate blocks:
1. Construction of a house from this wall material requires workers with highly qualified who have experience working with gas silicate:
- If we do not want to get a wall with cracks, it is necessary high-quality execution foundation. It is important that at the base (or base), the horizontal deviations are no more than 3 mm for a length of 2 m.
- Laying on adhesives must be carried out with special care: a gap in the adhesive seam is unacceptable, otherwise we will get natural ventilation through the walls, and, contrary to expectations, the house will be cold. You should not make seams less than 3-5 mm thick.
- Expensive interior decoration. Plastering must be done on a mesh (fiberglass) so that cracks do not appear. The plaster layer should be no more than 4-5 mm.
2. The need to finish the facade not only because of the unsightliness of the masonry, but also because gas silicate absorbs moisture well. Due to this feature, it is not recommended to use it in areas where the humidity is more than 60%.
3. A wall made of aerated concrete does not hold heavy hanging objects well.
How much does a gas silicate block cost?
Depending on the manufacturer and brand, the price for 1 m3 (28 pieces - 600x200x300) is:
- Wall, structural and thermal insulation block from RUB 3,500. up to 3800 rub.
- Structural - about 3800-4000 rubles.
The price for 1 piece of standard size gas silicate block for structural and thermal insulation purposes ranges from 120 to 140 rubles.
Gas silicate blocks are a type of lightweight cellular material that has a fairly wide range of applications in construction. Porous concrete products of this type have earned popularity due to their high technical qualities and numerous positive characteristics. What are the advantages and disadvantages of gas silicate blocks, and what are the features of their use in the construction of houses?
Gas silicate is considered an improved analogue of aerated concrete. The production technology for its manufacture includes the following components:
- high quality Portland cement, which contains more than 50 percent inorganic compound calcium silicate;
- water;
- aluminum powder as a blowing agent;
- slaked lime, enriched by 70 percent with oxides of magnesium and calcium;
- quartz fine sand.
A mixture of such components produces a high-quality porous material with good technical characteristics:
- Optimal thermal conductivity. This indicator depends on the quality of the material and its density. The D700 brand of gas silicate blocks has a thermal conductivity of 0.18 W/m°C. This figure is slightly higher than many values for other building materials, including reinforced concrete.
- Frost resistance. Gas silicate blocks with a density of 600 kg/m³ can withstand more than 50 cycles of freezing and thawing. Some new brands have a declared frost resistance of up to 100 cycles.
- Density of the material. This value varies depending on the type of gas silicate - from D400 to D700.
- Ability to absorb sounds. The noise insulation properties of cellular blocks are equal to a coefficient of 0.2 at audio frequency 1000 Hz.
Many technical parameters of gas silicate are several times higher than the characteristic parameters of brick. To ensure optimal thermal conductivity, walls are laid out 50 centimeters thick. To create such conditions from brick, a masonry size of 2 meters is required.
The quality and properties of gas silicate depend on the ratio of the components used for its preparation. The strength of products can be increased by increasing the dose cement mixture, but at the same time the porosity of the material will decrease, which will affect its other technical characteristics.
Species
Gas silicate blocks are divided into three main types depending on the degree of strength:
- Structural. This material is used for the construction of buildings not exceeding three floors. The block density is D700.
- Structural and thermal insulation. This type of gas silicate is used for laying load-bearing walls in buildings no higher than two floors, as well as for construction interior partitions. Its density ranges from D500 to D700.
- Thermal insulation. The material is successfully used to reduce the degree of thermal transfer of walls. Its strength is low, and due to its high porosity the density reaches only D400.
Gas silicate building blocks are produced in two ways:
- Autoclaved. The manufacturing technique involves processing the material under high steam pressure of 9 bar and temperature conditions 175 degrees. This steaming of blocks is carried out in special industrial autoclaves.
- Non-autoclave. The prepared gas silicate mixture hardens naturally for more than two weeks. At the same time, the required air temperature is maintained.
Gas silicate produced using autoclave processing has the highest technical characteristics. Such blocks have good performance strength and shrinkage.
Size and weight
The size of the gas silicate block depends on the type of material and its manufacturer. The most common dimensions are expressed in millimeters:
- 600x100x300;
- 600x200x300;
- 500x200x300;
- 250x400x600;
- 250x250x600.
Due to its cellular structure, gas silicate is quite lightweight material. The weight of porous products differs according to the density of the material and its standard size:
- D400 – from 10 to 21 kg;
- D500-D600 – from 9 to 30 kg;
- D700 – from 10 to 40 kg.
The small mass of the blocks and the ability to select the required size greatly facilitates the construction process.
Scope of application of gas silicate blocks
In construction, gas silicate is successfully used for the following purposes:
- construction of buildings;
- thermal insulation of various buildings;
- insulation of thermal engineering and construction structures.
The number of cells per cubic meter in manufactured gas silicate blocks is different. Therefore, the scope of application of the material directly depends on the density of the material:
- 700 kg/m³. Such blocks are most effectively used in the construction of high-rise buildings. The construction of high-rise buildings from gas silicate is much cheaper than from reinforced concrete or brick.
- 500 kg/m³. The material is used for the construction of low buildings - up to three floors.
- 400 kg/m³. This gas silicate is suitable for laying one-story buildings. Most often it is used for inexpensive outbuildings. In addition, the material is successfully used for thermal insulation of walls.
- 300 kg/m³. Cellular blocks with low density are designed for insulation load-bearing structures. The material is not able to withstand high mechanical loads, therefore it is not suitable for the construction of walls.
The lower the density of cellular blocks, the higher their thermal insulation qualities. In this regard, structures made of gas silicate with a dense structure often require additional insulation. Expanded polystyrene boards are used as insulating material.
Advantages and Disadvantages
The construction of houses from gas silicate blocks is quite justified by the low cost of the material and its many advantages:
- Blocks intended for building houses are highly durable. For a material with an average density of 500 kg/m³, the mechanical compression rate is 40 kg/cm3.
- The low weight of gas silicate products allows you to avoid additional costs when delivering and installing blocks. The cellular material is five times lighter than conventional concrete.
- Due to good heat transfer, heat energy consumption is reduced. This property allows you to significantly save on heating the building.
- High sound insulation rate. Due to the presence of pores, the cellular material protects against noise penetration into the building ten times better than brick.
- Good environmental properties. The blocks do not contain toxic substances and are completely safe to use. In many environmental indicators, gas silicate is equal to wood.
- High vapor permeability of products allows you to create good conditions indoor microclimate.
- Non-flammable material prevents the spread of fire in the event of a fire.
- The exact proportions of the block sizes make it possible to make even wall laying.
- Affordable price of material. With good technical indicators, the price of gas silicate blocks is relatively low.
Along with a considerable number of advantages, porous material has some disadvantages:
- The mechanical strength of blocks is slightly lower than that of reinforced concrete and brick. Therefore, when driving nails into the wall or screwing in dowels, the surface easily crumbles. The blocks hold heavy parts quite poorly.
- Moisture absorption ability. Gas silicate absorbs water well and quickly, which, penetrating into the pores, reduces the strength of the material and leads to its destruction. When constructing buildings from various types of porous concrete, surfaces are protected from moisture. It is recommended to apply plaster on walls in two layers.
- The frost resistance of blocks depends on the density of the products. Gas silicate grades below D 400 are not able to withstand a cycle of 50 years.
- The material is prone to shrinkage. Therefore, especially for blocks of grades below D700, the first cracks may appear a couple of years after the construction of the building.
When decorating walls made of gas silicate it is mainly used gypsum plaster. It perfectly hides all the seams between the blocks. Cement-sand mixtures are not retained on a porous surface, and when the air temperature drops, small cracks form.
The popularity of gas silicate is increasing every year. Cellular blocks have almost all the qualities necessary for the effective construction of low-rise buildings. Some characteristics far exceed those of other materials. Using lightweight gas silicate blocks, you can build a reliable building at low cost for a relatively short term.
This material has significant competitive advantages and enjoys well-deserved popularity in construction market our country. It is characterized by minimal weight, which simplifies the construction of walls, and also provides reliable thermal insulation of interior spaces, thanks to porous structure. In addition, gas silicate blocks attract buyers affordable price, how they compare favorably with brick or wood.
It is quite natural that this building material has its own characteristics, as well as specific application. Therefore, despite the low cost, the use of blocks made of gas selenite concrete is not always advisable. To better understand these subtleties, it makes sense to consider in detail the main technical specifications material.
Composition of gas silicate blocks
The material is produced using a unique technology. In particular, the blocks are produced by foaming, which gives them a cellular structure. To do this, a gasifier is added to the molds with the initial mixture, which is usually aluminum powder. As a result, the raw material increases significantly in volume and voids are formed.
To prepare the initial mixture, the following composition is usually used:
High quality cement, where the potassium silicate content exceeds 50% .
Sand, with 85% quartz content.
Lime, with a content of magnesium and calcium oxides of more than 70%, and a slaking speed of up to 15 minutes.
Sulfanol C.
It is worth noting that the inclusion of cement in the mixture is not a prerequisite, and if used, then in minimal quantities.
Hardening of the blocks is completed in autoclave ovens, where they are created high blood pressure and temperature conditions.
Specifications
The following technical parameters are typical for gas silicate blocks:
Volumetric mass from 200 to 700 units. This is an indicator of the dry density of cellular concrete, on the basis of which the blocks are marked.
Compressive strength. This value varies within B0.03-B20, depending on the intended use.
Thermal conductivity indicators. These values are in the range 0.048-0.24 W/ m, and directly depend on the density of the product.
Vapor tightness. This coefficient is 0.30-0.15 mg/Pa and also changes with increasing density.
Shrinkage. Here optimal values vary within 0.5-0-7 , depending on the raw materials and manufacturing technology.
Freezing cycles. This is frost resistance, which provides blocks with freezing and thawing without damaging the structure and strength indicators. Based on these criteria, gas silicate blocks are assigned a classification from F15 to F100.
It is necessary to clarify that these are not reference readings, but average values, which may vary depending on the production technology.
Dimensions according to GOST standards
Of course, manufacturers produce gas silicate blocks of different sizes. However, most enterprises try to follow established standards GOST behind the number 31360 in the editorial office 2007 year. The dimensions are listed here finished products:
It is important to understand that according to GOST, deviations in length and diagonal values are allowed, which classify finished products as 1 -oh or 2 -th category.
Dimensions of wall blocks
| TD "Liski-gazosilicate" | ||||
| Length, mm | Width, mm | Height, mm | Volume of one block, m3 | |
| Ordinary blocks | 600 | 200 | 250 | 0,03 |
| 600 | 250 | 250 | 0,038 | |
| Tongue and tongue blocks | 600 | 200 | 250 | 0,03 |
| 600 | 300 | 250 | 0,045 | |
| 600 | 400 | 250 | 0,06 | |
| 600 | 500 | 250 | 0,075 | |
| Gas silicate blocks "YTONG" | ||||
| Ordinary blocks | 625 | 200 | 250 | 0,031 |
| 625 | 250 | 250 | 0,039 | |
| 625 | 300 | 250 | 0,047 | |
| 625 | 375 | 250 | 0,058 | |
| 625 | 500 | 250 | 0,078 | |
| Tongue and tongue blocks | 625 | 175 | 250 | 0,027 |
| 625 | 200 | 250 | 0,031 | |
| 625 | 250 | 250 | 0,039 | |
| 625 | 300 | 250 | 0,047 | |
| 625 | 375 | 250 | 0,058 | |
| U-shaped blocks | 500 | 200 | 250 | * |
| 500 | 250 | 250 | * | |
| 500 | 300 | 250 | * | |
| 500 | 375 | 250 | * | |
Number of blocks per 1m3 of masonry
To do this, you need to convert the sides of the block into the desired unit of measurement and determine how many cubic meters one block occupies.
The most common products on the market have the following standard sizes: 600*200*300 . Convert millimeters to meters and get 0.6*0.2*0.3 . To find out the volume of one block, multiply the numbers and get 0.036 m3. Then divide the cubic meter by the resulting figure.
The result is a number 27.7 , which after rounding gives 28 gas silicate blocks in cubic meter masonry
Dimensions of partition blocks
Material weight
The structural mass of the block varies depending on the density of the finished product. Judging by the markings, we can distinguish the following weight:
D400. Weight 5-21 kg.
D500/D600. Weight - 9-30 kg.
D700. Weight - 10-40 kg.
In addition to density, the fundamental factor in weight change is the overall size of the finished block.
Pros and cons of gas silicate concrete
Like any building material, gas silicate blocks have strong and weaknesses. Positive characteristics include the following:
Gas silicate concrete belongs to the category non-combustible materials and can withstand open flames up to 5 hours, without changing the shape and properties.
Large overall dimensions ensure rapid construction of wall structures.
The blocks have a specific low weight, which greatly simplifies the work process.
Only used in production natural materials, therefore gas silicate blocks are environmentally friendly.
The porous structure provides high thermal insulation values for rooms.
The material is easy to process, which helps to build walls with complex geometries.
The disadvantages include the following:
They absorb moisture well, which reduces their service life.
Application for adhesion of special adhesive compositions.
Mandatory external finishing.
It is worth noting that gas silicate blocks require a solid foundation. In most cases, a reinforcing belt is required.
Gas silicate or aerated concrete?
Both materials belong to the category of cellular concrete, therefore they have almost identical structure and properties. Many builders believe that gas silicate and aerated concrete are two names for the same material. However, this is a misconception. Despite their external similarity, cellular concrete has a number of distinctive features, which determines their further application and technical characteristics.
In particular, when producing aerated concrete, natural hardening of the block in the open air is allowed; for gas silicate, autoclave ovens are a prerequisite. In addition, for aerated concrete blocks the main binding component is cement, while for silicate analogues it is lime. The use of different components affects the color of the finished blocks.
If we talk about specific characteristics, you can notice the following differences:
Gas silicate blocks have a uniform distribution of hollow cells, which ensures high strength.
The weight of aerated concrete blocks is much greater, which requires a reinforced foundation during construction.
In terms of thermal insulation, gas silicate blocks outperform aerated concrete blocks.
Aerated concrete absorbs moisture better, which provides a greater number of freezing cycles.
Gas silicate blocks have a more consistent geometry, which makes the finishing of wall structures easier.
In terms of durability, the materials are identical and can last more than 50 years.
If you answer the question: “What is the best?”, gas silicate blocks have many more technical advantages. However, manufacturing technology forces an increase in the cost of finished products, therefore aerated concrete blocks are cheaper. Therefore, those who want to build a house from high-quality and modern material choose aerated silicate; those who want to save money on construction give preference to aerated concrete.
In this case, it is necessary to take into account the region of application: in areas with high humidity air, the service life of gas silicate blocks is noticeably reduced.
Plastering walls made of gas silicate blocks
Plastering walls requires compliance with certain norms and rules. In particular, external finishing is carried out only after completion interior work. Otherwise, a layer of condensate will form at the border of the gas silicate and the plaster layer, which will cause cracks to appear.
If we talk about the technology of work, we can distinguish three main stages:
Applying a primer layer to increase adhesion.
Installation of fiberglass reinforcing mesh.
Plastering.
For finishing works It is better to use silicate mixtures and silicone plasters, which have excellent elasticity. Apply the plaster with a spatula, compacting the mixture over the reinforcing mesh. Minimum thickness layer 3 cm, maximum - 10 . In the second case, the plaster is applied in several layers.
Adhesive for gas silicate blocks
The structure of the material implies the use of special adhesive compositions in the construction of wall structures. It is worth noting that experts recommend purchasing glue and blocks as a set to eliminate material conflicts and ensure maximum adhesion. When choosing an adhesive, you need to take into account the drying time of the composition. Some mixtures set 15-20 minutes, but this is not an indicator of the quality of the glue. Optimal hardening time - 3-4 hours.
If we talk about specific names, you can pay attention to the following brands of glue:
Win-160.
Eunice Uniblock.
It is worth noting that different adhesive compositions are used for summer and winter construction. In the second case, special additives are added to the mixture; there is a corresponding mark on the packaging.
Glue consumption per 1m3
This information is usually provided by the manufacturer and varies within 1.5-1.7 kg. It should be clarified that the given values are only relevant for horizontal surfaces: for cubic capacity, glue consumption will be noticeably higher. Average consumption of adhesive composition per 1m3 masonry will be about 30 kg.
Please note that these are manufacturers' calculations and may differ from real values. For example, professional builders claim that 1m3 masonry made from gas silicate blocks takes at least 40 kg. This is due to the fact that the plastic composition fills all the voids and defects of the finished block.
Independent rating of manufacturers
Before starting construction, it is important to choose a materials manufacturer that supplies the market with quality products. In the Russian region, the following companies have earned consumer trust:
JSC "Ksella-Aeroblock Center". This is a German company, part of whose production facilities are located in Russia. The company's products are known all over the world for their inherent German quality. It is curious that the XELLA company operates in several directions, three of which are aimed at the extraction and subsequent processing of raw materials.
JSC "EuroAeroBeton". The company specializes in the production of gas silicate blocks with 2008. The company has its own production lines, where an automated process is used, equipment from the world's leading brands is used. The plant is located in Leningrad region, town of Slantsy.
LLC "LSR. Construction-Ural". The company's head office is located in Yekaterinburg, the plant occupies a leading position in the Urals. The company has a half-century history, uses an automated production process, and controls quality at all stages.
CJSC Lipetsk Silicate Plant. The history of the enterprise began in 1938, is one of the main suppliers of the central region of Russia. IN 2012, the company received an international class certificate ISO 9001.2008, which speaks about high quality products.
OJSC "Kostroma Silicate Plant". This is one of the oldest enterprises in the country, founded in 1930 year. Over the years of existence, a special charter has been developed that allows us to bring the quality of our products to a fundamentally new level. The company values its reputation and boasts the absence of negative reviews from consumers.
Please note that this is not a complete list of trustworthy manufacturers of gas silicate blocks in the Russian region. However, the products of these brands are optimal ratio cost and quality.