Hebel AAC Technical Manual

Section 3: Material Properties

3.1 Density
3.2 Compressive Strength
3.3 Tensile Strength (MOR)
3.4 Shear Strength
3.5 Modulus of Elasticity
3.6 Thermal Properties
3.7 Fire Resistance
3.8 Acoustic Performance
3.9 Reinforcing Steel Properties
3.10 Durability
3.11 Freeze and Thaw Resistance
3.12 Mortar Properties
3.13 Finishes
3.14 Environmental Exposure of AAC
3.15 Properties of Masonry Assemblies
3.16 References

3.1 Density
Hebel AAC is a lightweight construction material with dry densities ranging from 25 pcf (400 kg/m3) to 44 pcf (700
kg/m3). Hebel AAC is manufactured in compliance with ASTM 1386 – Standard Specification for Precast
Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (AAC) Wall Construction Units and ASTM 1452 – Standard Specification for
Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete Elements.

Table 3.1
Characteristics of Hebel AAC products (In Imperial Units)
AAC-2 AAC-2 AAC-4 AAC-4
Characteristics (2) Units
/400 /500 /500 /600
Nominal Dry Density Range 22-28 28-34 28-34 34-41 pcf
(1)
Design Weight Range 26-34 34-41 34-41 41-49 pcf
Minimum Compressive
290 290 580 580 psi
Strength
Modulus of Elasticity 195,000 195,000 296,000 296,000 psi
Thermal Expansion -6 -6 -6 -6
4.5 x 10 4.5 x 10 4.5 x 10 4.5 x 10 1/ºF
Coefficient
% (by
Moisture Content (Average) 8 8 8 8
mass)
(1) Values consider material's moisture content
(2) Hebel AAC is manufactured based on the strength category AAC-4/500.

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Table 3.2
Characteristics of Hebel AAC products (In Metric Units)
AAC-2 AAC-2 AAC-4 AAC-4 Units
(2)
Characteristics /400 /500 /500 /600
Nominal Dry Density Range 350-450 450-550 450-550 550-650 kg/m³
(1)
Design Density Range 420-540 540-660 540-660 660-780 kg/m³
Compressive Strength 2.0 2.0 4.0 4.0 MPa
Modulus of Elasticity 1345 1345 2040 2040 MPa
Thermal Expansion
-6 -6 -6 -6
Coefficient 8.1 x 10 8.1 x 10 8.1 x 10 8.1 x 10 K¯¹
% (by
Moisture Content (Average) 8 8 8 8 mass)
(1) Values consider material's moisture content
(2) Hebel AAC is manufactured based on the strength category AAC-4/500.

Once the material is taken out of the autoclave, its water content is approximately 30% by weight. This water
content remains in the material and is released with time until it reaches an equilibrium value of 5 to 8 % in
approximately 6 to 12 months.
Therefore, to calculate the value of density for use in design procedures, a 20 % increasing factor is applied to the
nominal dry densities (shown in Tables 3.1 and 3.2) to account for moisture content, and, in the case of reinforced
products, for reinforcing steel in the elements and in panel joints.

3.2 Compressive Strength

The compressive strength of Hebel AAC is related to its density and increases with increasing density.
Hebel AAC achieves its final strength during the autoclaving process. In Table 3.1 and 3.2 a summary of
compressive strength nominal values for each density is included.

3.3 Tensile Strength (MOR)

The tensile strength in flexure, also called modulus of rupture (MOR), shall be taken as two times the
spitting tensile strength as defined in ACI 530 Section A.1.8.2. Requirements for the modulus of rupture for
AAC masonry are listed in ACI 530 Section A.1.8.3.

3.4 Shear Strength

f v = 0.15 f AAC
'

For purposes of this manual, the allowable shear strength specified by ACI 530 for unreinforced elements
(masonry units) will be adopted.

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3.5 Modulus of Elasticity

ACI 530 (Section 1.8.2.3.1) specifies a value for the modulus of elasticity as follows:

E AAC = 6500( f AAC

'
) 0.6
'
Where f AAC is the specified compressive strength.

3.6 Thermal Properties

3.6.1 Thermal Conductivity
The thermal conductivity of Hebel AAC increases with density and moisture content. Thermal conductivity
is determined by using the Guarded Hot Plate (ASTM C177). Independent research shows the industry
2
value of 1.05-1.1 ft -h-°F/Btu per inch is conservative including the known decrease in R-value for
representative field moisture contents (ref. 13.16.14).

The thermal mass benefit is a function of the material configuration and climate conditions. To enable wall
performance comparisons, the “R-value Equivalent for Massive System” is used. The R-value equivalents for
massive walls are obtained by a comparison of the thermal performance of the massive walls and light-weight wood
frame walls. The following Tables 3.3 and 3.4 illustrate the Dynamic Benefit for Massive Systems and R value
equivalents gathered from Research Series Report No. 08 – A Comparison of Innovative Exterior Wall Construction
Techniques prepared by AZ Path dated July 2002 and ESR-1371.

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Table 3.3
DBMS and Requiv for AAC-2/500

8in (200mm) 10in (250mm)

R DBMS Requiv R DBMS Requiv
Phoenix 10.85 2.48 26.91 13.35 2.51 33.51
Flagstaff 10.85 1.99 21.59 13.35 1.99 26.57
Los Angeles 10.85 1.54 16.71 13.35 1.57 20.96
Sacramento 10.85 2.44 26.47 13.35 2.44 32.57
San Diego 10.85 1.42 15.41 13.35 1.44 19.22
San Francisco 10.85 1.78 19.31 13.35 1.79 23.90
Denver 10.85 1.9 20.62 13.35 1.92 25.63
Miami 10.85 1.73 18.77 13.35 1.76 23.50
Atlanta 10.85 1.93 20.94 13.35 1.94 25.90
Minneapolis 10.85 1.48 16.06 13.35 1.5 20.03
Albuquerque 10.85 2.06 22.35 13.35 2.09 27.90
Santa Fe 10.85 2.14 23.22 13.35 2.17 28.97
Las Vegas 10.85 2.46 26.69 13.35 2.49 33.24
Reno 10.85 2.05 22.24 13.35 2.06 27.50
Eugene 10.85 2.14 23.22 13.35 2.16 28.84
El Paso 10.85 2.31 25.06 13.35 2.34 31.24
Salt Lake City 10.85 2.11 22.89 13.35 2.11 28.17
Washington D.C. 10.85 1.7 18.45 13.35 1.72 22.96
Seattle 10.85 1.39 15.08 13.35 1.41 18.82
Spokane 10.85 1.85 20.07 13.35 1.86 24.83
R = Static R-Value,
DBMS = Dynamic Benefit for Massive Systems
Requiv = R x DBMS
Source: Research Series Report No. 08 – A Comparison of Innovative Exterior Wall Construction Techniques prepared by AZ
Path dated July 2002 and ESR-1371.

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Table 3.4 DBMS and Requiv for AAC-4/600
8in (200mm) 10in (250mm)
R DBMS Requiv R DBMS Requiv
Phoenix 9.10 2.48 22.56 11.16 2.51 28.01
Flagstaff 9.10 1.99 18.10 11.16 1.99 22.21
Los Angeles 9.10 1.54 14.01 11.16 1.57 17.52
Sacramento 9.10 2.44 22.20 11.16 2.44 27.23
San Diego 9.10 1.42 12.92 11.16 1.44 16.07
San Francisco 9.10 1.78 16.19 11.16 1.79 19.98
Denver 9.10 1.9 17.29 11.16 1.92 21.43
Miami 9.10 1.73 15.74 11.16 1.76 19.64
Atlanta 9.10 1.93 17.56 11.16 1.94 21.65
Minneapolis 9.10 1.48 13.46 11.16 1.5 16.74
Albuquerque 9.10 2.06 18.74 11.16 2.09 23.32
Santa Fe 9.10 2.14 19.47 11.16 2.17 24.22
Las Vegas 9.10 2.46 22.38 11.16 2.49 27.79
Reno 9.10 2.05 18.65 11.16 2.06 22.99
Eugene 9.10 2.14 19.47 11.16 2.16 24.10
El Paso 9.10 2.31 21.02 11.16 2.34 26.11
Salt Lake City 9.10 2.11 19.20 11.16 2.11 23.55
Washington D.C. 9.10 1.7 15.47 11.16 1.72 19.19
Seattle 9.10 1.39 12.65 11.16 1.41 15.73
Spokane 9.10 1.85 16.83 11.16 1.86 20.76
R = Static R-Value,
DBMS = Dynamic Benefit for Massive Systems
Requiv = R x DBMS
Source: Research Series Report No. 08 – A Comparison of Innovative Exterior Wall Construction Techniques prepared by AZ
Path dated July 2002 and ESR-1371.

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3.6.2 Energy Efficiency
Besides the inherent thermal resistivity (R-value), thermal mass is another parameter which provides
insulation characteristics to AAC material. Through energy efficiency studies, an equivalent performance R-
value can be obtained which may include seasonal temperature variations, air tightness of construction as
well as the static R-value of the material.

3.6.3 Thermal Expansion (kt)

The thermal expansion coefficient of AAC as defined in ACI 530 Building Code Requirements for Masonry
Structures is:

-6
kt = 4.5 x 10 /°F

3.7 Fire Resistance

Hebel AAC is non-combustible, and due to its low thermal conductivity and slow rate of heat transmission by
radiation (given its cellular structure) has remarkable fire endurance capabilities (Valore, 1954).

Fire Endurance Testing of Hebel AAC material in accordance to ASTM E119 (ANSI/UL 263) was performed at
Underwriters Laboratories (UL) and was witnessed by a Factory Mutual Research Co. (FMRC) representative.
Testing included non-load bearing wall, load bearing wall and slab panels assemblies. Results of these tests
generated the fire ratings presented in Table 3.5 which are included in UL 1998 Fire Resistance Directory. UL
classification and FMRC listing agreements enrolled Hebel AAC into a Follow Up service program focused on
quality assurance of AAC material.

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Table 3.5
Fire Minimum
Type of UL Design
Resistance Thickness of Comments
Element Number(s)
Rating AAC Materials
Restrained or
Floor Panels 4-Hour 6” Nominal K909
Unrestrained
Restrained or
Roof Panels 4-Hour 6” Nominal P932
Unrestrained
4” Nominal U916, U917
Non-bearing or
4-Hour 6” Nominal U918, U919, U920
Bearing Wall
8” Nominal U921
Block/Wall Bearing Wall attached
Panel to
2-Hour 3” Nominal V420
3 1/2”
Steel Stud System
4” Nominal Steel Column
4-Hour X901
8” Nominal Protection
Bearing or
Boards 2- Hour 2” Nominal U212, U213
Non-bearing
Block Wall Through Penetration
2-Hour 6” Nominal C-AJ-1556
Assembly Firestop
Floor, Roof or Through Penetration
4-Hour 6” Nominal C-BJ-1037
Wall Assembly Firestop
Floor, Roof or Through Penetration
3-Hour 6” Nominal C-BJ-8010
Wall Assembly Firestop
Through Penetration
Wall Assembly 4-Hour 6” Nominal W-J-8009
Firestop
FF-D-0017, FF-D-0018,
FF-D-0019, FF-2-20,
FW-D-0012, FW-D-0013,
Floor 1 ½ to 3
4” Nominal FW-D-0014, FW-D-0015, Joint System
Assembly Hour
HW-D-0166, HW-D-0177,
HW-D-0367, WW-D-0022,
WW-D-0023, WW-D-0024

3.8 Acoustic Performance

Hebel AAC can be used for a wide variety of acoustic applications. The STC (Sound Transmission Class) rating is
a single number guide used to rate acoustic barriers according to their effectiveness in increasing sound
transmission loss. Sound Transmission Class ratings are determined by ASTM E90.
The structure of AAC provides higher sound absorption as compared to that obtainable by regular concrete. Wall
assemblies using various AAC products are available from the AAC Products Association.

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3.9 Reinforcing Steel Properties
The steel wire reinforcement used in Hebel AAC reinforced products satisfy the physical requirements of ASTM
A82. In addition to these requirements, in-house quality control specifications are met regarding yield strength,
tensile strength, joint shear strength, and break elongation. Steel reinforcement anti-corrosive coating is supplied by
an external supplier.

3.10 Durability
AAC has been in use for nearly 85 years since it was first developed in Sweden, in approximately 1923. Since that
time, AAC has proven its durability all over the world, in the most diverse climatic conditions.

3.11 Freeze and Thaw Resistance

Senbu and Kamada (1992) present results of AAC freeze thaw testing according to ASTM C666 and also by the
critical saturation method recommended by RILEM. For both cases the results obtained are favorable. Kamada et
al. (1992) carried out a study of frost resistance of AAC in actual wall specimens. Their main conclusion was that
higher AAC density and water repellency was related to higher frost resistance. However, as a matter of principle,
building materials should be protected against excessive wetting in severe winter climates.

3.12 Mortar Properties

Mortar for AAC applications shall be specifically manufactured for use with AAC. AAC mortar shall comply with
ASTM C 109.

3.12.1 Hebel Thin-Bed (Adhesive) Mortar

Hebel Thin-Bed Mortar (Adhesive) is used when constructing with Hebel AAC blocks in walls. It is a ready mix (dry)
mortar to which only water is added. Its composition is based on Portland cement, fine silica sand and special
additives. A uniform layer, approximately 1/16” (1 mm) thick of mortar is applied on horizontal and vertical joints of
AAC blocks. Mortar shall comply with section 2103.11.1 of the IBC.

3.12.2 Hebel Repair Mortar

Hebel Repair Mortar is used for application on larger zones. Although its composition varies from that of the thin
bed mortar, the same specifications shown on Table 3.6 must be met.

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Table 3.6
Specifications for mortars according to ASTM C109
Compressive
Strength at Workability
Mortar Type 28 days (psi) (Hrs)
Hebel Thin Bed Mortar (Type III) ≥1450 4
Hebel Repair Mortar (Type III) ≥1450 4

3.13 Finishes
Various manufacturers supply a complete line of finishing products for exteriors and interiors. The special
formulation of these materials allows for excess water to be released from the AAC walls while impeding the
entrance of humidity into the blocks. Table 3.7 presents a summary of finishes and characteristics.
Table 3.7
Description of Finishing Products
Material Application
Finishing Plaster Interior /Exterior
Textured Finish Interior / Exterior
Gypsum (Stucco) Interior/Exterior

The optimum compressive strength of finishes for use on AAC should be the same or less than that of AAC itself.
This means a finish with a compressive strength between 435 to 580 psi
which are widely regarded as the optimum finish for both surface hardness and performance.
Fiber glass mesh is embedded in finish at high stress zones to avoid crack development.

3.14 Environmental Exposure of AAC

Like other cementitious materials, Hebel AAC is deteriorated by strong acids. Acid salt solutions such as chlorides
or sulphates may also degrade AAC in the long term. On the other hand, AAC is normally unaffected by all alkaline
solutions. AAC should not be used in sulphate concentrations higher than 600 mg/l unless protective precautions
are taken. AAC is generally water-resistant even under long term exposures. AAC has proved to be resistant
against termites in tropical regions and is not attacked by living organisms.

3.14.1 Moisture Protection

Hebel AAC outperforms normal concrete in water permeability because of its cellular structure and discontinuous
microstructure. Water penetration was performed in walls according to the severe conditions of ASTM E514
standard with outstanding results for both plain and plastered walls.

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3.15 Properties of masonry assemblies
3.15.1 AAC compressive strength
’
The compressive strength for a prism f m is the basis for obtaining allowable axial stress,
compressive bending stress and the compression moment resisting capacities for Hebel AAC
blocks.

3.15.2 Flexural bond strength

A masonry prism tested as a simple supported beam subjected to third point loading where the
ultimate load is used to compute the gross area modulus of rupture for a vertical mortared joint.

3.15.3 Diagonal tension

Diagonal tension in a block wall assemblage is determined by means of ASTM E519 “Standard
Tests Method for Diagonal Tension (Shear) in Masonry Assemblages”. The specimen size
(4 × 4 ft) permits the evaluation of the shear strength that would be representative of a full size
masonry wall. The masonry assemblies are loaded in compression along one diagonal of the
specimen.

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3.16 References
3.16.1 - Aroni, S., de Groot, G.J., Robinson, M.J., Svanholm, G., and Wittmann, F.H. (1992) Autoclaved Aerated
Concrete. Properties, Testing and Design. RILEM Recommended Practice. RILEM Technical Committees
78-MCA and 51-ALC.
3.16.2 - Senbu, O., Kamada, E. (1992) Mechanism of Frost Deterioration of AAC, Advances in Autoclaved Aerated
Concrete, Wittmann (Ed.), 1992, Balkema, Rotterdam, pp. 153-157
3.16.3 - Hama, Y., Tabata, M., Watanabe, T., and Kamada (1992) Frost Resistance of Increased Density
Autoclaved Aerated Concrete, Advances in Autoclaved Aerated Concrete, Wittmann (Ed.), 1992, Balkema,
Rotterdam, pp. 157-165.
3.16.4 - Schubert, P., Mayer, U. (1992) Compressive Strength and Modulus of Elasticity of AAC Masonry,
Advances in Autoclaved Aerated Concrete, Wittmann (Ed.), 1992, Balkema, Rotterdam, pp. 237-245.
3.16.5 - House, Y., Alou, F., Wittman, F.H. (1983) Influence of Moisture Content on Mechanical Properties of AAC,
Autoclave Aerated Concrete Moisture and Properties, Elsevier, Amsterdam.
3.16.6 - Aroni, S. and CIvidini, B. (1989) Materials and Structures, Vol. 22, pp. 443-449.
3.16.7 - Valore, R.C. Jr. (1954) Cellular Concretes, Journal of the American Concrete Institute, May-June, 1954.
3.16.8 - Weber, H. (1991) Das Porenbeton Handbuch: Planen und Bauen mit System (The AAC Handbook of
Project and Construction), Bauverlag GmbH, in German.
3.16.9 - Neville, A.M. (1993) Properties of Concrete, Third Edition, Longman Scientific & Technical, Harlow Essex,
England.
3.16.10 - ACI 523.2/R-96 Guide for Precast Cellular Concrete Floor and Roof Slabs. ACI Committee 523. May
1996.
3.16.11 - ACI 530-05 Building Code Requirements for Masonry Structures and Commentary.
3.16.12 - ACI 530.1-05 Specifications for Masonry Structures.
3.16.13 - International Building Code – 2006
3.16.14 - Christina M. Behrens, MS and Jennifer E. Tanner, PhD (2008) Evaluation of Thermal Resistance of
Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (AAC) Masonry Systems. TMS Journal, July 2008

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DISCLAIMER. This document is not intended to replace the knowledge, experience and judgment of design
professionals. Xella Aircrete North America, Inc., is not responsible for ensuring weather-tightness, overall
functionality or fitness for use of the panels, or compliance with federal, state, or local laws, ordinances or
regulations, including building, environmental and other codes.

WARNING. Property damage or personal injury or death may result from improper design, use or installation.
Licensed design and construction professionals, who are in good standing with the governing authority and have
the necessary knowledge, experience and judgment of the specific building system and its components, should be
retained to ensure a proper design, use and installation.

MODIFICATIONS. Xella Aircrete North America, Inc. reserves the right to change its Technical Manual, Design
Guide, safe working loads, panel dimensions or installation techniques at any time without prior notice. Last
modified: 4/2/2009.

WARRANTY/DAMAGES. This document and all further technical advice are based upon Xella Aircrete North
America, Inc.’s present knowledge and experience. However, Xella Aircrete North America, Inc. assumes no
liability for providing such information and advice. Xella Aircrete North America, Inc. disclaims all CONDITIONS
AND WARRANTIES, WHETHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF
FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE OR MERCHANTABILITY. XELLA AIRCRETE NORTH AMERICA,
INC. SHALL NOT BE RESPONSIBLE FOR CONSEQUENTIAL, INDIRECT OR INCIDENTAL DAMAGES
(INCLUDING LOSS OF PROFITS or USE) OF ANY KIND.

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