This report is a review of the properties and performance of autoclaved aerated concrete. The material has a relatively low thermal conductivity combined with loadbearing capacity for use in structural and non-structural applications. This feature may make its use attractive for energy-conserving applications. For this reason, the review was conducted at the request of the U.S. Department of Energy.The review addressed an overview of the manufacturing process, uses of autoclaved aerated concrete in building constructions, properties, energy considerations, the availability of code-related documents, and standards. Uses include block and panel construction in both loadbearing and non-loadbearing applications for walls, floors, and roofs. Many properties are reviewed including density, fire resistance, moisture expansion and shrinkage, strength, structure, and thermal conductivity. With regard to energy considerations, the review points out that, for energyefficient applications under severe climatic conditions, the autoclaved aerated concrete unit alone may be insufficient to provide the targeted minimum value of thermal resistance. In these cases, autoclaved aerated concrete has to be used together with additional thermal insulation. In contrast, autoclaved aerated concrete alone may satisfy insulation needs in areas having mild climates.
Criteria are given for retrofit materials and products included in the DoE Weatherization Assistance Program. These materials and products are thermal insulation, storm windows and doors, replacement windows and doors, caulks and sealants, weatherstripping, vapor retarders, clock, thermostats, and replacement glazing. The criteria are based on a consideration of factors such as thermal performance, fire safety, durability, quality, conformance to building codes, use, and ease of installation.The retrofit materials and products are listed by generic type along with pertinent standards and specifications. Precautions to be followed during their installation are also given for each of the items. Fire safety requirements for thermal insulations are recommended with regard to the use and locations where they are installed.
Key words:caulks and sealants; clock thermostats; energy conservation; fire safety; insulation; replacement glazing; replacement windows and doors; retrofitting; storm windows and doors; vapor retarders; weatherization; weatherstripping.iii Since some of the information included in this present report was previously published in NBS Technical Note 982, the editors again wish to acknowledge their colleagues who assited in its preparation. Those individuals were
scite is a Brooklyn-based organization that helps researchers better discover and understand research articles through Smart Citations–citations that display the context of the citation and describe whether the article provides supporting or contrasting evidence. scite is used by students and researchers from around the world and is funded in part by the National Science Foundation and the National Institute on Drug Abuse of the National Institutes of Health.