Lighter AAC from Matrix

Matrix PAAC, LP (formerly Hebel Southeast), makers of autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC) block, have introduced the AAC-2.5LT. The AAC-2.5LT has the same dimensions as the standard 2.5, but is 23% less dense. Even though the block is light enough to reduce shipping costs on a full load, it is still suitable for structural use. Matrix PAAC suggests in the press release for the AAC-2.5LT that it “may require” the use of recommended AAC fasteners for installation, rather than drywall screws or nails, as sometimes used with the standard 2.5. Chuck Gerber, Marketing Manager of Matrix, indicated that wherever possible Matrix was encouraging the use of AAC fasteners with all their products, but that the lower density of the 2.5LT slightly increased the risk of pull-outs or other damage. The Matrix 2.5LT outperforms the standard AAC-2.5 in insulating values (R-11.5 [RSI-2] as opposed to R-9.65 [RSI-1.7] for an 8”-thick [20 cm] finished wall). The AAC-2.5LT now competes favorably with the similar YTONG® AC2 (Ytong’s standard block). Ytong’s technical binder indicates that a static R-value of 11.5 [RSI-2] has been calculated for the AC2, but elsewhere in promotional literature and on their Web site they persist with often misleading claims of R-20 [RSI-3.5] “effective R-value” ratings for the same block.

– RF