Abrasion resistance is largely determined by the abrasion resistance of the coarse aggregate. Concrete is susceptible to creep. It is difficult to obtain accurate figures for creep but 30x10-6 mm per MPa can be taken as a guide. Often concrete is overdesigned and creep does not become a major concern. Concrete also shrinks as it cures and continues to do so at a decreasing rate throughout its life.
Lightweight concrete has advantages in some applications.
Lightweight concrete is commonly used for internal, non-loadbearing walls where thermal and sound insulation are important considerations. However, in Europe it has been used for external loadbearing walls for many years, often with a protective render. It is a low energy material to produce. Panels and blocks are set in place with a thin bed mortar. AAC is soft enough to be easily chased for placement of services and because of its light weight it is easy to manoeuvre into position on site.