EcoMasonry | HyFibe | Technical

Here is HyBlock's technical data, including formal compression test results from a certified lab and Energy-Star's 5-star-plus certificate

HyBlock is created from a proprietary mix of specialty, ceramic like cements, pozzalins and renewable core-fiber aggregate.

HempArch is also created from the same proprietary mix of specialty, ceramic like cements, pozzalins and core-fiber aggregate; the difference is the ratio of the materials; a stronger mix is attained to meet enhanced structural requirements for use as window and door header beams.

HyBlock is a load-bearing construction masonry unit:
• Appropriate for 1-4 story projects
• Perfect for residential, commercial and light industrial buildings
• No wood or metal structural frame is needed w/ HyBlock

Features

1) Sustainable materials and manufacturing
2) Sequesters CO2 (carbon-negative)
3) Excellent thermal insulation
4) High thermal inertia
5) Excellent sound insulation
6) Airtight
7) High vapour permeability
8) Non-toxic with zero VOC's or formaldehyde
9) Mould resistant without added chemicals
10) Fire and pest resistant without added chemicals
11) Mainstream masonry building system
12) Locally sourced materials

Benefits

1) Minimizes the use of resources
2) Fights climate change
3) Lower energy bills
4) Comfortable even temperature
5) Quiet interiors
6) Minimized drafts and energy loss
7) Comfortable humidity levels maintained
8) Healthy interiors - healthy indoor air quality
9) Low maintenance costs
10) Safe, solid construction
11) Fast, easy and economic construction
12) Benefits local economies

HyBlock and Hemp

• Each HyBlock contains 5kg of hemp shivs
• One hectare can produce up to 10 tonnes of hemp
• Hemp grows from seed to 4m tall in14 weeks
• Hemp shiv, the woody core, is 60% of the plant's mass
• One hectare of hemp can build an average size home

Working with HyBlock

• Running bond configuration
• Damp-rising barrier between foundation & first row of blocks
• Thinset mortar applied with a notched trowel
• Conventional construction methods saws, drills, routers, fasteners
• Plasters and renders adhere directly to the HyBlock surface

1.0 Some Examples of Appropriate Site Practices:

1.1 Storage:

HyBlock blocks should be stored on a dry, level surface and should be covered to protect them from severe weather. On uneven ground and on site, stacking should normally be restricted to two pallets high.

1.2 Block Laying:

• A regular bond-beam pattern should be maintained, based on a minimum overlap of a quarter of a block.
• Blocks can be laid flat or vertical.
• Lintels should bear on a minimum of half blocks, wherever possible.
• Cut blocks should always be used for irregular and non-standard spaces.
• Blocks should be laid on a full bed of mortar (ASTM rated thin-set mortar).
• Blockwork should be protected from adverse weather during and immediately after laying.
• Latex modified thinset mortar is recommended.
• Blocks should be laid in accordance with the current AAC Code of Practice for blockwork.

1.3 Cutting & Drilling:

Site waste can be kept to a minimum using HyBlock blocks as special shapes and infill pieces can be easily cut with hand tools. Holes can be made with a normal drill.

1.4 Fixing:

Fixing into HyBlock blocks is easy. Stainless steel screws or nails as appropriate will provide reliable fixings.

1.5 Health & Safety Information:

When cutting or drilling HyBlock blocks, the following personal protective equipment should be worn:
• Safety Goggles
• Dust Mask
• Safety Gloves
• Protective Footwear

Manual handling should be undertaken in accordance with common masonry guidelines.

Industry Testing

Preliminary test results from Radco Labs for structural capacity have shown that HyBlock meets and surpasses the International Building Code 2006 requirements for solid masonry construction.

We recommend that a licensed structural engineer evaluate all projects to establish that our product is appropriate for each individual circumstance. We can refer you to a firm that has experience with HyBlock if necessary.

The Steiman residence

The Steiman residence was evaluated over three years for energy use - Energy-Star issued a 5-Star-Plus rating and stated the house's energy use was 50% of conventional houses