Mechanical properties of autoclaved lightweight concrete block

Autoclaved lightweight concrete (ALC) was developed to attain lighter weight and lower thermal conductivity than normal concrete by forming macroscopic air bubbles. In this study, the material properties of ALC blocks currently used in Korea were investigated. By performing a number of material tests, the compressive strength, the modulus of elasticity, and the flexural tensile strength of ALC blocks and the compressive strength of ALC mortar were evaluated. The test results were compared with domestic and international design codes. The compressive strength, the modulus of elasticity, and the flexural tensile strength of ALC blocks increased in proportion to the specific gravity of the blocks. The ACI 523 design equations for the modulus of elasticity and the flexural tensile strength, which is defined as a function of compressive strength, agreed with the test results.