Keramzittype

Keramzittype is a term used to describe a family of ceramic composite materials that incorporate keramzit-derived lightweight aggregates within a silicate or glassy matrix. The designation emphasizes porosity-controlled ceramics designed to combine low density with reasonable mechanical strength and thermal insulation. The concept is used in materials science and construction literature to distinguish these composites from dense ceramics and traditional lightweight concretes.

Composition and microstructure: A typical keramzittype formulation includes ceramic powder or grains, a sizable portion of keramzit aggregates (expanded-clay granules), and a binding phase such as a cementitious binder or a vitreous glaze. The ceramic matrix binds the aggregate, producing a porous network with intergranular pores and some open porosity that enhances insulation and moisture management in certain grades.

Manufacturing: Production involves preparing keramzit aggregates, blending with fine ceramic material and binder, forming by pressing or extrusion, and curing or firing. When fired to vitrification, the material forms a glassy phase around the aggregates, improving stability and weather resistance; cement-bonded variants cure at ambient temperatures.

Properties: Keramzittype materials are relatively lightweight (bulk density roughly 0.8 to 1.8 g/cm3), with lower thermal conductivity than dense ceramics and satisfactory compressive strength for blocks, panels, or substrates. Thermal and acoustic insulation, fire resistance, and moisture behavior depend on the porosity and binder system.

Applications and variants: They are used in architectural blocks, insulating panels, and horticultural substrates. Variants are graded by aggregate size, porosity, and binder (e.g., keramzittype-A, keramzittype-B).

History: The term emerged in recent technical literature to categorize ceramic composites that leverage keramzit to tailor density and performance.

See also: keramzit, ceramic composite, lightweight concrete, insulating masonry.