Ytong cellular concrete, also known as Ytong cellular concrete or autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC), has interesting physical and construction properties that make it suitable for various applications in construction, especially due to its insulation capacity and strength. Here are the main physical and construction properties of Ytong cellular concrete:
- Thermal Insulation
- High insulation capacity: Ytong cellular concrete has a low thermal conductivity coefficient, typically between 0.09 and 0.14 W/m·K, depending on its density. This means that the material provides good insulation without the need for additional insulating layers.
- Thermal mass: Although it is a lightweight material, it provides some thermal mass, helping to maintain a more stable temperature inside buildings, especially with external temperature changes.
- Moisture Regulation Capacity
- Vapor-permeable structure: Cellular concrete is vapor-permeable, allowing it to absorb and release moisture. This helps to avoid condensation problems and ensures a healthy indoor environment, as it allows moisture to evaporate from the inside.
- Water absorption: The material can absorb some water, but due to its fine cellular structure, the water does not penetrate deeply. Most Ytong products are also protected against rain infiltration.
- Acoustic Insulation
- Sound damping: Ytong provides moderate acoustic insulation. Since it is a lightweight material, it is not always sufficient for spaces with high soundproofing requirements. It is particularly effective against airborne noise but less effective against impact noise. Higher-density variants or thicker walls improve acoustic insulation.
- Fire Resistance
- High fire resistance: Ytong cellular concrete is non-combustible (class A1 according to European standards). It has excellent fire resistance; Ytong walls can resist fire for up to four hours, making it very suitable for constructions that require fire protection.
- Load Capacity and Compression Resistance
- Lightweight but strong: Although Ytong cellular concrete is lightweight, it has an adequate compression resistance for load-bearing walls in residential buildings and small structures. Compression resistance ranges from 2 to 7 N/mm², depending on the type.
- Low flexural and tensile strength: However, the material is not elastic and has low resistance to tensile and bending forces, making it less suitable for structures that require flexibility or high bending strength.
- Environmental Aspects
- Sustainable and environmentally friendly: Ytong cellular concrete is made from sand, lime, cement, and water, and its production process requires less energy than traditional concrete. It is a recyclable material and has a relatively low ecological footprint.
In summary, Ytong cellular concrete combines insulation and strength with fire safety and a healthy indoor environment, although it is less suitable for heavy constructions or those with high soundproofing requirements. It is a versatile and sustainable material for interior and exterior walls in residential construction.
