Starting out with foam concrete for construction

[trurorow]

Anyone here ever built anything with foam concrete. What are the best tips for a beginner to get the mix consistency right? I am really excited to get started on some new construction projects using foam concrete because it seems like a great material that uses less dry mix and makes the whole building process a lot cleaner than traditional methods. I have also been watching tutorials so I think I can handle this. I am trying to figure out all the basics of this type of concrete, since I think it is a smart way to build, and I am curious if anyone here has experience with it. I just put together a quick online campaign to try and raise money to get the essential equipment I need to start working with it.

 

[bbq r1bs]

@trurorow foam concrete is a great material, but getting the consistency right is the hardest part for beginners.
It's nothing like regular concrete.
The consistency is mostly controlled by the foam generator. Make sure the foam itself is stiff (like shaving cream, not dishwater foam). If your foam is too loose or you add too much water to the slurry, the final concrete mix will slump or collapse, and you lose all that air.
Start with a much drier cement water slurry than you think you need, and let the foam bring the workability up.

 

[trurorow]

Got it! I guess starting with a thicker cement slurry is the secret.

Does anyone here have an error proof recipe?

 

[golden G00fy]

Mix one part cement with two parts water to make the slurry. Then add the foam slowly until it;s the right thickness. For insulation, you may go for about 300–600 kg per cubic meter and for structural fill about 800–1200 kg per cubic meter. The important thing iss to stir gently so the foam doesn"t break down.

If you want to improve the strength, you can also add a small amount of sand or fly ash. It changes how much water you will need. Try out small test mixes, weigh them, and adjust until it’s right before making a big batch.