AAC bricks key to earthquake resistance

By A Staff Reporter,Kathmandu, Mar. 24: With Nepal's rapid urbanisation and high seismic risks, the adoption of AAC bricks is seen as a key solution to enhancing earthquake resistance, said the experts and producing companies. 

"AAC bricks also improve energy efficiency, and reduce construction costs," they said at the first AAC Conference held in Kathmandu on Friday. They maintained that eco-friendly and durable nature of AAC has made it an ideal alternative to traditional bricks.

The conference was hosted by the AAC Bricks Manufacturers Association (ABMA) and brought together industry leaders, government officials, engineers, and construction professionals to discuss the importance of Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (AAC) bricks in modern construction.

The Government of Nepal has introduced quality norms and regulations for AAC bricks to standardise production and ensure market availability.

Gopal Prasad Sigdel, Secretary of the Ministry of Urban Development, said that standards for AAC brick production have been approved, encouraging manufacturers to maintain quality and affordability.

The AAC sector in Nepal has already received an investment of over Rs. 5 billion, creating more than 5,000 jobs. This significant investment reflects the increasing adoption of AAC technology in the country, said Nicholas Pandey, President of the ABMA.

Over the past decade, the production and use of AAC bricks have grown rapidly, with factories across multiple regions ensuring adequate supply. The industry aims to further expand its reach to meet the rising demand for sustainable construction materials.

Indian AAC expert and technologist Mukunda Joshi emphasised the earthquake-resistant properties of AAC, citing Turkey’s post-earthquake reconstruction efforts as a model for Nepal. He highlighted that AAC bricks reduce thermal and sound transmission, resulting in energy-efficient buildings.