16 Questions
What is the main classification of hollow concrete blocks based on?
Load bearing capacity
What is the smallest dimension of hollow concrete blocks according to EBCS?
10 cm x 20 cm x 40 cm
What is the primary material used to make bricks?
Clay-bearing soil, sand, and lime
What is the term used to describe rectangular building units composed of similar materials to bricks, but larger in size?
Block
What type of bricks are made from expanded clay aggregate?
Lightweight bricks
What is the purpose of Class A and B hollow concrete blocks?
Load bearing walls
What is the term used to describe bricks joined together using mortar, adhesives or interlocking?
Masonry construction
What type of bricks have been used since circa 4000 BC?
Air-dried bricks
What is the primary reason for the popularity of hollow concrete blocks in construction?
Low cost
What is the main advantage of using hollow concrete blocks over solid concrete blocks?
Lighter weight
What is the primary material used in the production of concrete blocks?
Sand and cement
What is the term used to describe a concrete block with one or more hollow cavities?
Concrete masonry unit (CMU)
What is the primary disadvantage of using hollow concrete blocks?
Weak against lateral loads
What is the typical size of a manufactured solid concrete block?
400mmx200mmx150mm
What is the purpose of using fresh concrete mortar between concrete blocks?
To hold the blocks together to form the desired length and height of the wall
What is the typical lifespan of a hollow concrete block?
20+ years
Study Notes
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.
Learn about the popularity and characteristics of hollow concrete blocks and bricks in modern construction, including their uses, composition, and benefits.
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