Fly ash AAC (Autoclaved Aerated Concrete) blocks have become a preferred choice among builders across India due to their light weight, insulation, and eco-friendly qualities. As demand increases, the market has seen a rise in substandard products. For consumers who prioritise structural integrity and long-term performance, the ability to distinguish genuine AAC blocks from poor imitations is essential. Here, we share some of useful tips on identifying original fly ash AAC blocks in the market:
Appearance and finish should be consistent
Original AAC blocks have uniform dimensions and a smooth finish. The edges appear clean, and the blocks fit neatly without large gaps. The typical colour is light grey, due to the presence of fly ash. Blocks with inconsistent colouring or rough finishes may indicate poor quality or non-standard manufacturing.
Texture and internal structure reveal quality
Authentic blocks feel solid yet lightweight. When broken, they reveal a consistent cellular structure with evenly distributed air pockets, which contribute to insulation and weight reduction. Imitation blocks often feel too dense or too crumbly and may show an irregular texture inside.
Weight and density must follow standards
Standard AAC blocks fall within a density range of 550 to 650 kg per cubic metre, as defined in IS 2185 (Part 3):1984. Blocks outside this range may contain low-grade material or incorrect mixtures. A block that feels too heavy might have excess cement or sand. A block that feels too light could lack the required strength. On-site comparison with known samples is a simple method to assess density.
Certification and documentation confirm authenticity
Genuine manufacturers provide quality certification that confirms compliance with IS 2185 Part 3. Reliable suppliers mark their blocks with branding, batch numbers, and clear identification. Always request documentation, including test certificates, and verify their authenticity. Suppliers who cannot provide certification should be avoided.
Water absorption and strength indicate durability
Quality AAC blocks absorb less water, which improves durability and reduces the risk of cracks. Blocks should not become overly saturated when exposed to moisture. In addition, compressive strength should meet or exceed the minimum standard of 4 N/mm². On-site tests or third-party lab reports can confirm this.
Market price reflects product integrity
Genuine AAC blocks involve controlled production, autoclaving, and adherence to quality checks. These processes incur reasonable manufacturing costs. If the price appears unusually low, it may signal shortcuts in production or the use of inferior materials. Builders should consider the average market rate and avoid vendors who undercut by large margins without justification.
Looking for genuine fly ash AAC blocks for your project?
Explore our fly ash AAC blocks. We source high-grade raw materials including cement, fly ash (pulverised fuel ash), lime, and gypsum. The correct mixture of raw material ensures that our fly ash blocks remain authentic, environmentally responsible, and economical. Here are some of the technical aspects that reflect the genuineness of our materials:
- Density (oven dry): 580-610 kilogram/cubic metre against BIS (IS:2185 Part 3:1984) standard of 550-650 kilogram/cubic metre.
- Compressive strength: 4.5 N/square millimetre on an average against the BIS (IS:2185 Part 3:1984) standard of 4 N/square millimetre.
- Drying shrinkage: 0.21-0.24 W/m-k against the BIS (IS:2185 Part 3:1984) standard of 0.24 W/m-k.
- Modulus of elasticity: Our fly ash AAC blocks have an elasticity of 2040 N/square millimetre.
- Sound absorption: Our products can absorb 40-45 decibels of sound against a 200-millimetre-thick wall.