Abstract
Autoclaved sand-lime products are environment-friendly building materials in the form of bricks and blocks. Due to great interest in silicate products, there have been numerous studies and modifications aimed at improving the properties of the material. The article presents the most important characteristics of sand-lime products, both traditional as well as modified with polyethylene glycol. The purpose of described research was to estimate porosity (determine the type, size and pores distribution) and to analyze the microstructure of aforementioned samples. From the practical point of view, these characteristics are particularly important in the construction materials. The following tests have been carried out: bulk density using the hydrostatic method, capillarity, water absorption and mercury porosimetry of samples containing polyethylene glycol. The samples were also subjected to observation of the microstructure under the scanning electron microscope. Preliminary research findings clearly show the positive influence of the used substrate on the basic properties of modified sand-lime product. In comparison to the reference sample, modified products showed a decrease in water absorption and reduced capillarity. The confrontation of the measurements made using a mercury porosimeter with observation of the microstructure, showed differences in the distribution of pores and their size. Besides the additive, the production process itself has a huge impact on the properties of silicates (mixing process, time and temperature of autoclaving).
Highlights
Autoclaved sand-lime products are manufactured from natural raw materials, so they are classified as healthy and ecological materials [1]
Silica brick is becoming increasingly important as a construction material
Low water absorption of silicates allows the erection of silicates cladding walls
Summary
Autoclaved sand-lime products (silicates) are manufactured from natural raw materials, so they are classified as healthy and ecological materials [1]. Silicates, which are characterized by high compressive strength and durability, are an excellent acoustic and thermal insulator. They are completely non-flammable, resistant to frost and growth of microorganisms [2, 3]. Silica brick is becoming increasingly important as a construction material. It is willingly used for the construction of load-bearing walls, partitions, curtain walls and foundation. Most of masonry elements must be quickly plastered, while walls made of sand-lime blocks can be safely left without plaster. They will not be damaged under the influence of atmospheric factors. Silica brick does not emit unpleasant odor, even when saturated in water and its bright color provides a friendly interior of the basement
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
