Types of Concrete Blocks

Two Major Types of Concrete Blocks or Concrete Masonry Unit

1. Solid Concrete Blocks
2. Hollow Concrete Blocks

Solid Concrete Blocks

Solid concrete blocks are made from aggregate, Portland cement, and sand. At least 75% of the entire volume of these blocks, as determined by their overall dimensions, is made of solid material. They weigh as much as a result. The construction is quite stable because of these blocks. Therefore, these blocks are employed in a sizable masonry project. They are utilized in both load-bearing and non-load-bearing walls. In contrast to traditional bricks, solid blocks come in larger sizes. As a result, building concrete block masonry takes less time than building brick masonry.

Types of Solid Concrete Blocks

• Fly Ash Block
• Aerated Autoclaved Block
• Paving Block
• Cellular Lightweight Block
• Expanded Clay Aggregate Block

Fly Ash Block

• Fly ash is a fine, powdery substance that, when combined with water, creates a product resembling Portland cement.
• Fly ash bricks typically only come in small sizes because they become less durable the bigger they go and are more prone to fractures and splitting at higher sizes. Portland cement is made by combining limestone with clay or shale that has been finely pulverized or burned.

Aerated Autoclaved Block

• AAC block, also known as aerated autoclaved block, is a lightweight material that provides excellent sound and temperature insulation. Though less accessible than some other types of concrete, its fire resistance and insulating qualities make it a desirable option.
• The term “aerated” refers to the concrete blocks’ 80% air content, which explains their lightweight. Nails and screws can be used, and the material is easily shaped. However, it is not as strong as certain options for denser concrete, making it not the greatest concrete for supporting loads and frequently requiring reinforcement.

Paving Block

• Paving blocks are square or rectangular solid blocks that are used for paving, in walkways, and on the shoulders of roads (where they should be painted to increase visibility).
• They come in a range of sizes and hues, including sandstone, tan, dark brown, charcoal, and light grey, despite the fact that they are frequently brick-shaped.

Cellular Lightweight Block

• Foam, fly ash, and cement are the three components of the cellular lightweight block, a type of building material. It’s environmentally friendly, reasonably priced, and fireproof.
• For load-bearing or dividing walls, high-density cellular lightweight blocks can be utilized; non-load-bearing brickwork can employ medium densities.

Expanded Clay Aggregate Block

• Fly ash and cement are used as lightweight aggregates in expanded clay aggregate blocks. Due to their lightweight and fire resistance, they can reduce the overall structural load by up to 50%. They also function well as thermal and acoustic insulators.
• This substance may be molded into various sizes and densities since it is burnt in a kiln.

Hollow Concrete Blocks

More frequently, hollow concrete blocks are utilized in masonry buildings. It quickens the construction process, conserves steel and cement, and lowers labor costs on the construction site. These blocks enhance the physical characteristics of walls, such as noise and thermal insulation, and reduce the natural weight of masonry projects. Additionally, they offer capabilities for burying water, earth, and electrical tube.