ASTM C1452-00 (R2006) PDF Download

ASTM C1452-00 (R2006) is a standard that specifies the requirements for load-bearing and nonload-bearing reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC) elements used in building construction. Autoclaved aerated concrete is a lightweight cementitious product made from calcium silicate hydrates with the inclusion of an agent that creates voids. The product is subjected to high-pressure steam curing. This standard covers AAC floor, roof, wall, and stair elements.

According to the specification, the raw materials used in the production of AAC include portland cement, quartz sand, water, lime, gypsum, or anhydrite. The quartz sand can be replaced by a siliceous fine aggregate, which is ground to a fine powder before use. Fly ash can also be used as a sand replacement. These raw materials are mixed to form a slurry, which is then cast into steel molds. The slurry expands due to chemical reactions before hardening. The solidified elements are then cut into various sizes with high precision. Finally, the elements are steam-cured under pressure in autoclaves, transforming the matrix into a solid calcium silicate hydrate.

It is important to note that installed AAC units must be protected against direct exposure to moisture using a coating material approved by the AAC manufacturer. Additionally, the standard mentions that a loss on ignition (LOI) of up to 12% may be acceptable for AAC production, as long as supporting test data is provided by the manufacturer.