Aluminum additives play a crucial role in Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (AAC) production. Choosing the right form—powder or paste—directly impacts gas generation, pore structure, and final strength. This guide clarifies the key differences and applications, helping manufacturers optimize their AAC products.

Introduction
Aluminum additives play a crucial role in Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (AAC) production. Choosing the right form—powder or paste—directly impacts gas generation, pore structure, and final strength. This guide clarifies the key differences and applications, helping manufacturers optimize their AAC products.

Aluminum Powder vs Aluminum Paste for AAC
Aluminum powder and paste both serve as gas-generating agents in AAC. However, their physical properties, reactivity, and application methods differ. Understanding these distinctions ensures stable pore formation and consistent product quality.

Particle Properties and Reactivity

• Aluminum Powder: Produced by dry grinding, it has high active aluminum content and fast gas generation. The fine particles allow uniform dispersion in dry mixes, enabling efficient reaction with calcium hydroxide.

• Aluminum Paste: Combines aluminum powder with a carrier liquid, offering stable gas generation. It reduces dust issues and ensures consistent distribution in wet sand or slurry mixes.

Storage and Handling Advantages

• Aluminum Powder: Requires careful storage to prevent moisture absorption. Long shelf life if kept dry.

• Aluminum Paste: Easier to handle and measure due to its liquid form. Lower risk of oxidation and safer for large-scale AAC plants.

Performance in AAC Production

Applications and Comparison
Aluminum powder is ideal for dry-mix AAC processes where rapid gas generation is desired. Paste is preferred in sand aeration and slurry-based production, offering more uniform pore structures and improved compressive strength. Manufacturers often choose based on production scale, safety requirements, and desired pore uniformity.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can aluminum powder and paste be interchanged in AAC?
A1: While both can act as gas-generating agents, interchanging may affect reaction rate, pore size, and product strength. Testing and formula adjustment are necessary.

Q2: How does particle size affect aluminum powder performance?
A2: Finer particles increase reaction speed, leading to faster pore formation, but may increase dust hazards and require controlled handling.

Q3: What is the optimal storage condition for aluminum paste?
A3: Keep in sealed containers at temperatures below 25°C. Avoid direct sunlight and freezing conditions to maintain stability.

Conclusion
Selecting the right aluminum additive—powder or paste—directly impacts AAC quality, gas generation, and structural strength. ZQ Metallic Pigment Co., Ltd. offers high-quality aluminum powders and pastes designed for stable, efficient AAC production. Explore our products to optimize your AAC process and ensure consistent results.