Extract

ABSTRACT: The use of AAC within the construction industry is greatly limited in terms of structural
applications. But in non-structural applications the properties of this material work well in terms of
seismic performance and sustainability – the two aspects focused on in this paper. A theoretical
approach is taken to the study of seismic performance – information and values pertaining to
performance derive from literature reviews of various sources, including manufacturer’s specifications
and independent research studies.

There is little direct correlation between the two aspects of seismic performance and the sustainability
of ACC. However, in New Zealand, both need consideration in the construction of buildings. Theory
suggests that AAC will perform very well under seismic action due to its lightweight nature, closed
regular structure, and standardised connections of each element. And in regard to sustainability,
compared with conventional concrete there is less embodied energy and embodied carbon dioxide
emissions; although the annual operational energy is greater for both heating and cooling loads.

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