Hollow Concrete Blocks and Bricks in Construction

Concrete Blocks and Bricks

Popularization of Hollow Concrete Blocks

• Hollow concrete blocks and bricks are gaining popularity in modern construction.
• They are widely used in building residential buildings, factories, and multi-storied buildings.
• Their low cost makes them a popular choice for compound walls.

Characteristics of Hollow Concrete Blocks

• Lightweight and easy to ventilate.
• Made up of sand, cement, gravel, pumice, and water with varying mix ratios.
• Can be classified as concrete masonry units (CMUs).
• Most concrete blocks have one or more hollow cavities.
• Sides can be cast smooth or with a design.

Types of Concrete Blocks

Classification by Weight and Shape

• Solid concrete blocks: heavier, mostly used for load-bearing wall construction.
• Hollow concrete blocks (HCB): lighter, more common, with one or two hollow cores.
• HCBs are economical, need semi-skilled laborers, and have a 20+ year lifespan.

Classification by Size or Thickness

• Concrete blocks have three different dimensions depending on their thickness:
  • 20 cm x 20 cm x 40 cm
  • 15 cm x 20 cm x 40 cm
  • 10 cm x 20 cm x 40 cm

Classification by Purpose

• Hollow concrete blocks are classified into:
  • Class A and B: load-bearing HCB units, suitable for external walls, internal walls, and panels.
  • Class C and D: non-load-bearing HCB units, suitable for non-load-bearing internal panels.

Bricks

Definition and Characteristics

• A brick is a building material used to make walls, pavements, and other elements in masonry construction.
• Traditionally made of clay, but now also made of clay-bearing soil, sand, lime, or concrete materials.
• Bricks can be joined together using mortar, adhesives, or interlocking.
• Produced in numerous classes, types, materials, and sizes.

Types of Bricks

• Fired bricks: longest-lasting and strongest building materials, sometimes referred to as artificial stone.
• Non-fired bricks: also known as mud bricks, with an additional ingredient of a mechanical binder.
• Lightweight bricks: made from expanded clay aggregate.