Abstract: Despite poor experiences in the UK, reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) has been, and still is, used extensively throughout Europe, the Americas and the Far East seemingly without the litany of failures identified in this country. This paper attempts to explain the history and development of the product, its characteristics, uses and shortcomings. Comment will be given on survey methodology, risk assessment and remedial works along with potential legal implications for surveyors and other practitioners.
Keywords: RAAC, AAC, Aircrete, aerated cellular concrete, deflection
Trevor Rushton is a chartered building surveyor and chartered building engineer; he has spent most of his professional career at Watts Group and is now Chairman of the company. His career has involved the analysis and appraisal of a wide range of high-rise and low-rise buildings from housing to military establishments, commercial, transport and marine structures, both above and below ground. Trevor has specialised in building pathology and over the years has been a prolific writer and speaker on the subject. He has published two textbooks — Investigating Hazardous and Deleterious Building Materials and Investigating Defects in Commercial and Industrial Buildings. Additionally, he has edited the Watts Pocket Handbook, which has helped countless candidates through their APC. He has served on the editorial board of ISURV and the Built Environment Journal as well as the Journal of Building Survey Appraisal & Valuation; for many years he acted as county buildings adviser to Surrey County Scout Council. He has also served as an external examiner to Kingston University.