ACMU Buyers Guide
Buyers Guide
Typically the stakeholder group for any type of aerated concrete is the designer, builder, and owner. Generally the designer and builder will decide which type of aerated concrete will be used based on function of material and function of building. Usually the owner is not heavly involved in the designing process except in how the final project will look in the end. When designers decide on whether or not to use aerated concrete versus other materials, they take into account ACMU's unique properties, like how it is a light, but very strong material which can be used for most buildings.
One of the biggest advantages of using aerated concrete is how structurally strong the material is when compared to most other materials. The amount of time it can maintain its integrity during a fire is fascinating. In most cases if the entire building is engulfed in flames the only material left standing is aerated concrete. Builders enjoy the material because the only damage done by weathering is while under construction. Once properly sealed most all weather is not a factor except in extreme cases. Some fear that because ACMU is a very porous material that the wall will leak or have freezing and thawing issues, however in reality as long as the wall is properly sealed there is no reason either of these problems should occur. A great function of this material is that it traps air with in itself, which creates good insulation on its own, eliminating the need for additional insulation, like other types of wall systems require. Another good feature of aerated concrete is that once the wall is complete it will last for decades and produce no volatile chemicals inside the building. In the end, aerated concrete and all of its many types are a great choice for the building and everyone involved.
 
http://www.hebel.co.nz/about/aircrete.jpg http://www.treehugger.com/files/2006/01/ecrete.php
Back to Technological Performance
Back to Aerated Concrete Masonry Units
Back to Systems Page
|
