Not so long ago, a new variety appeared on the building materials market - a ceramic block. He immediately caused a lot of controversy. Experts hastened to determine its positive and negative sides. Having appreciated all the advantages of a unique masonry material, the ceramic block began to be actively used on construction sites. . Hundreds of customers have already been able to appreciate the benefits of building and living in houses made of this material.
Distinctive characteristics of the ceramic block
It is rightly compared with a brick, as the manufacturing technology resembles the production of bricks. But the ceramic block has characteristic differences:
- larger size with less weight;
- the technology eliminates the presence of harmful chemical compounds in the form of fillers, additives;
- the laying of the ceramic block is carried out across, while the brick lies along the wall;
- the material has a porous structure, which explains its light weight;
- along the edge of the ceramic block there are special grooves that provide a stronger hitch;
- masonry involves the use of a special adhesive solution.
Ceramic blocks, in addition to the grooves located on the sides, have embossed recesses on the surface. It also provides a more durable masonry.
The technology requires strict adherence to the requirements of GOST. Based on this regulatory document, the material is referred to as ceramic stone, so the end result has stone strength. In the distribution network, it can be found as a large-sized brick or porous ceramics, all this is the norm.
The technology involves firing, as is the case with bricks. But the ingredients are different:
- fusible clay (color may vary);
- loam;
- mudstone;
- silica;
- loess.
This is the main composition. Various additives may be present:
- cleaned slag and coal ash;
- sawdust (they burn out during firing, but make the material stronger);
- components to increase viscosity;
- plasticizers.
All components are mixed with water and brought to a certain consistency. Forms are poured and then fired. The result is a lightweight material with improved performance:
- low density:
- high heat and sound insulation properties;
- increased strength;
- light weight that does not increase the load on the foundation;
- faster laying;
- high fire resistance;
- exceptional steam conductivity, which is why ceramic block houses are often compared with timber houses due to the microclimate inside;
- The material is hygroscopic, meaning it does not absorb moisture.
Many skeptical experts do not trust this material due to its low weight, believing that it is not strong enough in compression. But these are only prerequisites and such characteristics are characteristic of ceramic blocks, which are not used for laying load-bearing walls, but only for cladding.
Did the article help you?