Autoclaved aerated concrete reinforced by polymeric pins

Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (AAC) is a lightweight and sustainable building material known for its thermal insulation and acoustic properties. However, its relatively low mechanical strength limits its use in load-bearing applications. This paper introduces the concept of incorporating unsaturated polyester resin (UPR) pins into AAC blocks to improve compressive and flexural strength of the material. Pin diameters of 4, 6, 8 and 10 mm were studied, oriented at 90 degrees and 45 degrees in relation to the AAC main plane. The effects of the UPR/AAC interface were analyzed through microscopy. The results point to a substantial increase in mechanical strength of the reinforced AAC, wherein smaller pins with orientation of 45 degrees and 90 degrees presented the best behavior under flexural (up to 298%) and compressive loading (up to 183%), respectively.