Composite building block having moisture barrier and insulation element

Abstract

A construction block for use in the construction of elemental structures, including a body having a bottom surface, a top surface, end surfaces, an outer surface which forms part of an outer surface of a structure and an inner face. At least one formation on or in at least the inner face and/or at least one of the end faces receives and retains at least one insulating element. The insulating element provides thermal insulation for the structure formed from such construction blocks.

Description

BACKGROUND

The present invention relates to an improved composite building block and a method of construction using such building blocks using a selected blend of ingredients forming a mortar matrix and an insulating element. More particularly, the present invention relates to an insulting element for use in the construction of a composite building block and in wall constructions using such building blocks. More particularly the present invention provides a building block and a wall constructed from such blocks having superior waterproofing, thermal and insulating properties due to the use of the insulating element.

PRIOR ART

There are in existence a wide variety of building blocks each tailored to suit an individual application.

Numerous construction materials have been provided in the prior art. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,230,195 to Sease; U.S. Pat. No. 5,365,714 to Potvin; U.S. Pat. No. 5,471,808 to DePieri et al. and U.S. Pat. No. 5,505,034 to Dueck all are illustrative of such prior art and are incorporated by reference herein. While these units may be suitable for the particular purpose to which they address, they would not be as suitable for the purposes of the present invention to be described herein below.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,230,195 discloses an insulating molded plastic building unit comprising a rectangular parallelepiped without a rear wall. One or more alignment bosses extending upwardly and outwardly from an upper wall of the building unit are equidistantly spaced from a front face and a side face thereof to cooperatively align with alignment sockets of automatically space superimposed building units. Each building unit has vertical and diagonal webs for structural reinforcement thereof. Cavities within each building unit can be filled with insulating material to enhance the insulating characteristics thereof. A plurality of the building units are laid in courses with joints formed therebetween with waterproof adhesive.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,365,714 discloses a wall for a rampart or building, consisting of a plurality of building blocks, each comprising slightly compacted sawdust or wood chips glued with resin. The building blocks are interconnected by a number of assembling pins and by recesses integral to the respective blocks, so as to frictionally engage into one another. There are also provided full length projections and corresponding grooves of the respective blocks for the same purposes. The structure is remarkable by the quality of the joints and by the ease and quickness of its assembly or disassembly.

Another building block is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,471,808. The building block has a hollow body with lateral surfaces which bear a decorative finish, a flat upper surface having studs protruding therefrom, and a bottom opening defining seats for accommodating the upwardly protruding studs of an underlying block. A frog is formed in the flat upper surface for permitting the introduction of an adhesive medium between adjacent blocks. The block can be provided with a framework having an upper frame and legs for interposition between adjacent blocks.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,505,034 discloses a block for forming a retaining wall comprising a generally parallelepiped body with front, rear, top, bottom and side surfaces and a central internal cavity with internal walls. Integrally formed protruding knobs are formed on the bottom surface adjacent the front surface and are positioned for protruding into the central cavity of at least one other block in a wall formed from the blocks.

None of the above examples of the prior art disclose a building block manufactured in accordance with the method to be described herein and which have improved insulating properties.

INVENTION

The present invention provides an alternative to the known building blocks and particularly lightweight blocks having improved insulating and moisture resistance properties. In its broadest form the present invention comprises:

• • a construction block for use in the construction of elemental structures, the block comprising a body having a bottom surface, a top surface, end surfaces, an outer surface which forms part of an outer surface of a structure and an inner face; at least one formation on or in at least the inner face and/or at least one of the end surfaces which receive/s and retain/s at least one insulating element; wherein, the insulating element provides thermal insulation for a structure formed from said construction blocks.

In another broad form the present invention comprises:

• • a polystyrene insulating element for use in the thermal insulation of a wall constructed from building blocks made from a cementitious material wherein said element approximates the size of at least one face of a building block with which the insulating element is used, wherein the polystyrene insert is adapted for integral attachment with at least one said building blocks such that a composite building element comprising said element and at least one said blocks is formed.

In another broad form the present invention comprises:

• • an insulating element for use in a construction block for use in the construction of elemental structures, the block comprising: a body having a bottom surface, a top surface, end surfaces, an outer surface which forms part of an outer surface of a structure and an inner face; at least one formation on or in at least the inner face and/or at least one of the end surfaces which receive/s and retain/s at least one insulating element; wherein, the insulating element provides thermal insulation for a structure formed from said construction blocks.

In another broad form the present invention comprises:

• • an insulating element for use in the thermal insulation of a wall constructed from building blocks made from a cementitous material; wherein, said element approximates the size of at least one face of a building block with which the insulating element is used, wherein, the polystyrene insert is adapted for integral attachment with at least one said building blocks such that a composite building element comprising said element and at least one said blocks is formed.

In another broad form the present invention comprises:

• • a structure manufactured from building blocks comprising a body having a bottom surface, a top surface, end surfaces, an outer surface which forms part of an outer surface of a structure and an inner face; at least one formation on or in at least the inner face and/or at least one of the end surfaces which receive/s and retain/s at least one insulating element; wherein, the insulating element provides thermal insulation for the structure formed from a composite building element comprising said blocks and said insulating element.

In another broad form the present invention comprises:

• • a composite building block including an insulating element wherein the element provides a thermal and moisture barrier to said block wherein, said composite is prepared in a mould and the block is formed from a cementitious matrix; wherein said matrix is poured in said mould while said polystyrene element is in said mould; wherein the element and block mutually engage by opposing gender formations to form the composite block.

In another broad form the present invention comprises a method of construction of a block wall having an insulating layer; wherein the method comprise the steps of:

• • a) taking a mould for forming at least one building block;
  • b) preparing a cementitious matrix for formation of said blocks;
  • c) placing at least one element having insulating properties in said mould;
  • d) pouring said matrix into said mould such that the matrix engages mould surfaces and at least one surface of said element;
  • e) allowing said matrix to set for a predetermined period of time;
  • f) removing said at least one block and said at least one element from said mould;
  • g) constructing a wall from said blocks and associated at lest one element thereby producing a structure having increased insulating properties by virtue of said at least one insert.

In another broad form the present invention comprises:

• • a composite building block and polystyrene element wherein the polystyrene element provides a thermal and moisture barrier to said block wherein said composite is prepared in a mould, the block formed from a cementitious matrix including timber aggregate; wherein said matrix is poured in said mould while said polystyrene element is in said mould.

In another broad form of a method aspect the present invention comprises:

• • a method of preparation of a structure formed from composite building blocks the method comprising the steps of:
  • a) placing a mould of predetermined dimensions on a base surface;
  • b) placing a polystyrene element in said mould;
  • c) mixing a matrix of cementitious material and pouring said material into said mould so that the material forms at least one block;
  • d) allowing said element to engage said matrix so that said element forms a composite with said matrix;
  • e) allowing said matrix to set for a predetermined period
  • f) removing said composite element and matrix from said mould.

According to one embodiment, the method comprises the additional step before placing said polystyrene element in said mould of providing means on the mould to allow the element to key into said matrix. Preferably the mould comprises walls defining an internal space but without a base or lid so that a through passage is provided. Preferably, the moulds are four sided but it will be appreciated that composite blocks of alternative shapes and configurations may be formed by alternative mould shapes.

According to a preferred embodiment, the polystyrene element is generally elongate but includes on at least one surface, projections which “key” into the cementitious matrix to ensure that the insert always retains its predetermined disposition and unwanted movement is prevented.

In another broad form of the method aspect the present invention comprises:

• • a method of preparation of a structure formed from building blocks prepared in a mould; the method comprising the steps of:
  • a) forming a cement of clay fired moulded block such that the finished block includes surface formations therein on at least one surface;
  • b) taking at least two said blocks and placing said blocks so that said formations on said at least one surface of two said blocks are in spaced apart but opposing relationship to form a cavity therebetween;
  • c) filling said cavity between said at least two blocks with a flowable material capable of filling said cavity;
  • d) allowing said flowable material to set thereby creating a composite building element comprising said two blocks and said flowable material.

According to a preferred embodiment, the flowable material is a foaming polyurethane or styrene or like product. The foaming product is preferably low density and fully penetrates the cavity formed between said blocks to form an insulating layer imparting to the building block superior insulating properties and a barrier to moisture. Preferably two opposing bricks are placed with keys facing each other set to a predetermined width.

• • a) preparing a mould;
  • b) placing a polystyrene element in said mould;
  • c) mixing a matrix of cementitious material and pouring said material into said mould so that the material forms at least one block;
  • d) allowing said element to engage said matrix so that said element forms a composite with said matrix;
  • e) allowing said matrix to set for a predetermined period;
  • f) removing said composite element and matrix from said mould.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

The present invention will now be described in more detail according to a preferred but non limiting embodiment and with reference to the accompanying illustrations wherein;

FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a polystyrene insulating element according to one embodiment;

FIG. 2 shows a plan view of the insulating element of FIG. 1 of indefinite length.

FIG. 3 shows an abbreviated plan view of opposing insulting elements as they would be disposed in adjacent end to end blocks

FIG. 4 shows an elevation view of a wall section comprising three composite blocks and styrene insulating elements inserted.

FIG. 5 shows an end elevation of two courses of blocks spaced apart by polystyrene elements according to a preferred embodiment.

FIG. 6 shows a perspective view of an insulating element insert according to an alternative embodiment

FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of an insulating element insert according to an alternative embodiment.

FIG. 8 shows an end view of two courses of cobblestone blocks according to an alternative embodiment and including insulating elements.

FIGS. 9 and 10 show end views of respective mould elements for preparing an end profile in a block according to a preferred embodiment; and

FIGS. 11 and 12 show perspective views of different proportioned respective mould elements for preparing an end profile according to a preferred embodiment.

FIG. 13 shows a plan view of a polystyrene insert with interlocking key engaging an adjacent insert.

FIGS. 14-16 shows side elevation views of blocks formed from a mould.

FIG. 17 shows an end view of a wall section comprising a typical rock face block, a flat face block separated by styrene insulating element.

FIG. 18 shows a plan view of a block arrangement with hollow core.

FIG. 19 shows an end view of the arrangement of FIG. 18.

FIG. 20 shows a plan view of a spaced apart block arrangement with polystyrene insulating element.

FIG. 21 shows an end view of the arrangement of FIG. 20.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a polystyrene insulating element profile 1 according to one embodiment. Element 1 is adapted for use in building blocks used in the construction of structures and preferably elemental structures such as but not limited to walls both structural and internal non load bearing. Element 1 is integrally fitted to a construction block during manufacture of the block such that an integral composite is formed it may be fitted after construction of the block and during construction of a structure inwhcih the blocks are to be used.

Preferably, element 1 comprises a prismic body made from a material having high insulating properties and is insertable adjacent or in at least one said building blocks to thereby provide a thermal and water barrier to at least one face of each said building blocks. In a preferred embodiment, Element 1 is a generally elongate and approximates the length of a brick which with it will be used. For the purpose of integral engagement of element 1 and an adjacent brick or block, element 1 may according to one embodiment, typically comprise a generally elongate body 2 comprising a top 3 side walls 4 and 5, end walls 6 and 7 and bottom 8. Wall 4 includes dovetail formations 9, 10 and 11 and wall 5 includes formations 12, 13 and 14. Each formation provides a keying in profile for mutual engagement between element 1 and a block not shown. Formations 9-14 allow element 1 to embed in a cementitious matrix formed for construction of a construction block with which element 1 is suitable for use. Element 1 may be of definite length as shown in FIG. 1 or indefinite length as shown in FIG. 2 depending upon job requirements. Preferably, the length of element 1 will be about the length of a building block. Element 1 further comprises end profiles 15 and 16 formed respectively in end walls 6 and 7 and which facilitate locking engagement with a corresponding insulating element in an adjacent (end to end) construction block.

Formations 9-14 are preferably angled at approximately 75 degrees but it will be appreciated that this and other dimensions of the formations may be varied according to prescription.

The formations are a predetermined width, depth and shape so as to maximise the keying or binding effect between element 1 and it's adjacent construction block without encroaching too deeply into the body 2 of element 1. Each key formation 9-14 may be spaced apart so that each is offset to its counter part on an opposite wall. Element 1 of FIG. 1 shows formations disposed symmetrically about longitudinal axis 17.

FIG. 3 shows a top view of opposing longitudinally disposed styrene elements 18 and 19. Elements 18 and 19 include respective dovetail formations 20 and 21 on one face and formations 22 and 23 on an opposing face. Elements 18 and 19 have respective opposing ends 24 and 25. End 24 includes a recess 26 and end 25 includes a recess 27. An insert 28 is placed intermediate elements 18 and 19 such that end 29 of insert 28 engages recess 26 and end 30 of insert 28 engages recess 27.

FIG. 4 shows an elevation view of a wall section 31 comprising three construction blocks 32, 33 and 34. Blocks 33 and 34 receive polystyrene inserts 35 and 36. Opposing ends 37 and 38 of blocks 10 and 12 respectively, receive polystyrene insert 39 which provides a key to secure ends 37 and 38. Block 32 receives polystyrene insert 32a.

FIG. 5 shows an end elevation of two courses of blocks 40 and 41 spaced apart by polystyrene elements 42 and 43 according to a preferred embodiment. The arrangement shown comprises foundation blocks 44 and 45 spaced apart by element 42 and which receive and support a second course of blocks 46 and 47. Blocks 46 and 47 are spaced apart by element 43. Element 42 disposed between blocks 44 and 45, sits proud of upper surfaces 48 and 49 at its upper extremity. Preferably, according to a method aspect, blocks 45 and 47 are kept spaced apart by temporary wedge 50 whereupon mortar may be forced into gap 51. Likewise wedge 52 separates blocks 44 and 46 allowing mortar to be introduced into gap 53.

FIG. 6 shows a perspective view of an insulating element 54 according to an alternative embodiment

FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of an insulating element 55 according to an alternative embodiment. Element 55 has a higher height dimension that element 54. In the embodiments shown each has only one side wall formation for engagement with a corresponding block not shown. It will be appreciated that there could be any number of formations in the sidewalls of a typical element or there may be none in the case where total reliance is placed on end to end fastening of opposing elements.

FIG. 8 shows an end view of two courses 56 and 57 of cobblestone blocks 58, 59, 60 and 61 according to an alternative embodiment. In the example shown, respective outer faces 62, 63, 64 and 65 of blocks 58, 59, 60 and 61 each have a radiused curve which enhances the external appearance of the blocks. As previously described the block arrangement shown includes insulating element 64 disposed between blocks FIGS. 9 and 10 show end views of respective mould elements 66 and 67 for preparing an end profile in a block according to a preferred embodiment; and

FIGS. 11 and 12 show perspective views of different proportioned respective mould elements 66 and 67 for preparing an end profile of an insulating element according to a preferred embodiment.

FIG. 13 shows a plan view of an insulating element arrangement 68 comprising mating styrene elements 69 and 70. Element 69 separates blocks 71 and 72 and element 70 separates blocks 73 and 74. According to the embodiment shown, element 70 includes a female gender profile 75 which engages corresponding male gender profile tongue 76 to ensure secure interfitting between elements 69 and 70.

According to one embodiment, element 70 preferably protrudes past a block end forming tongue 76 but leaves a concave 75 at its opposite end. The tongue and groove arrangement creates a continuous unbroken styrene section from block to block so as not to compromise the R value in perpendicular joints. The tongue and groove arrangement ensures that each block is perfectly aligned with it's neighbouring blocks, thus reducing the risk of human error in laying the blocks. The tongue and groove also ensures the perpendicular joints are of equal width and reduces the possibility of air flow and water penetration through the perpendicular joints as a result of poor brick laying.

According to a preferred embodiment blocks referred to throughout this specification are preferably made from a cementitious matrix which includes cellulose or timber aggregate. However, it will be appreciated that other matrix mixes may be used according to requirements.

The polystyrene elements described herein are adapted for integral attachment with at least one said building blocks such that a composite building element comprising polystyrene element and at least one said blocks is formed.

According to one method aspect, construction of a block wall having an insulating layer; comprises the following steps. First a mould is prepared for forming building blocks. A cementitious matrix is mixed for formation of the blocks.

At least one element having insulating properties is placed in the mould., whereupon a cement slurry is poured into the mould such that the matrix engages mould surfaces and at least one surface of the element. The matrix is allowed to dry/set for a predetermined period of time whereupon the at least one block and at least one element is separated from said mould. A structure such as a wall is then constructed using the composite blocks formed from the integrally attached block and insulating element. The so formed structure has increased insulating (and waterproofing) properties by virtue of the at least one element.

According to one embodiment, the method comprises the additional step before placing the polystyrene insert in said mould of providing means on the mould to allow the element to key into the matrix. Preferably the mould comprises walls defining an internal space but without a base or lid so that a through passage is provided. Preferably, the moulds are four sided but it will be appreciated that composite blocks of alternative shapes and configurations may be formed by alternative mould shapes.

In another embodiment, there is provided a method of preparation of a structure formed from clay fired building blocks prepared in a mould. A finished block includes surface formations therein on at least one surface, such that at least two blocks are placed so that the formations on at least one surface of the two blocks are in spaced apart but in opposing relationship to form a cavity therebetween. The cavity between at least two blocks with a flowable material capable of filling the cavity. Preferably the flowable material is a foaming polyurethane or styrene or like product. The foaming product is preferably low density and fully penetrates the cavity formed between said blocks to form an insulating layer imparting to the building block superior insulating properties and a barrier to moisture.

Preferably each block is single skin and load bearing so as to reduce the cost and increase the speed of building and to increase the R value (insulation). A styrene insert of approximately 40 mm width will increase the R value of a standard 200 mm wide block made from a timber aggregate from 0.92R to 2.25R.

The polystyrene insert elements reduces all water and moisture penetration through the block wall. They also improve the ease, speed and accuracy of block laying (especially when using a matrix including timber for the construction blocks), eliminate the need for control or expansion joints and increase bond strength between blocks. The insert elements also contribute to an increase in overall stability of a block wall during earth tremor or quake and decrease the chance of cracking due to movement in the footing or slab. Further, the blocks may be nailed with all size nails and screws without the need for pre-drilling or wall plugs.

The styrene elements are preferably disposed midway of the width formed by two opposing blocks for the following reasons:

• • a) To provide sufficient thermal mass, to store energy on the inside of the dwelling
  • b) Tie down rods or cyclone rods are best placed in the centre of the block. The centre being styrene makes the drilling of holes to house the rods easy.
  • c) To increase the fire rating and structural integrity of the block wall regardless of whether the fire is on the inside of the house or the outside. The side of the wall that is exposed to flames will eventually lose structural integrity. Due to the centrally mounted styrene insert heat transference is dramatically reduced thus leaving one side of the wall structurally sound.

This composite including block and styrene insert will dramatically improve all cement stabilised blocks and fired clay blocks such as:

• • 1. Typical concrete block blend & cement stabilised mud brick,
  • 2. Foamed air (or aerated concrete products),
  • 3. Concrete products with added low density material such as vermiculite, fly ash, organic products such as products containing cellulose material i.e. rice husks, sawdust and other organic products
  • 4. The Timbercrete™ blend which is the present Applicants previous invention.

Blocks manufactured from a cementitious matrix which includes timber derivatives adds to the overall R (thermal rating) value yet has better thermal mass than other products such as foam concrete (aerated concrete). It is light weight yet strong material. This means that the thickness of the Timbercrete section on either side of the styrene insulating element can be wider than conventional bricks or blocks. As a result there is a greater surface face area which means greater bond wrench strength. Also, the overall load bearing capacity of a wall constructed from the blocks is increased. Due to the lighter density and greater surface area of timber based aggregate blocks compared to solid concrete products, are lighter and stronger are non-combustible and have low conductivity, offering a better fire rating than most.

The composite according to the invention including the integral insulating element is non brittle and has elastic memory and thus is less likely to crack when subject to bending pressures. Tests show that a 150 mm long×5 mm wide nail can be hammered directly into the corner of a block without splitting or cracking the block. In the same way any size or shape self tapping screw will enter without the need for pre-drilling or wall plugs.

The blocks may be provided in a variety of shapes and colours offering originality and creativity. According to a method aspect the moulds used in the construction of the blocks may be provided in different shapes and sizes. Setting time is longer than the known method of timber aggregate block construction and a reduced slump parameter is preferred. Regardless of what masonry product is used the viscosity of the matrix is critical to an effective product. The matrix material used must be viscous enough to flow into all formations or wedge shaped keys of the insert elements described above thereby creating a sound bond between styrene insert and its adjacent masonry block. Care must be taken to remove the mould only after prescribed setting times.

Blocks according to the invention have mortar joints which are much thinner (preferably 5 mm) than traditional brick work which is normally 10 to 15 mm thick.

Block corners on the ends and top (one or more sides) may be completed with a pronounced chamfer approximately 20 mm diameter. The chamfer on the corners and edge of the block is preferably rounded. The top and two ends of block face may have a smooth convex shape creating a three sided convex frame with a split face half oval centre.

When the moulds are removed lifting it in its entirety (without dissembling), a small slump occurs. The slump need only be 1.5-2 mm. The wet blocks subsequently rest against each other in some places. The two blocks will join at random places and when separated random patterns occur.

The composite block including the insulating element is non brittle and has a limited elastic memory with a thin flexible mortar having a strong binding quality, will produce a wall that has many unique qualities. There is a reduced need for control and expansion joints and reduction in the risk of cracking from movement of footings or slabs.

Other insert element with insulating properties can be substituted for polystyrene such as polyurethane, foamed rubber, foamed concrete, vermiculite glued so as to make a board, fly ash also glued together and other low density mineral products. Organic inserts could include glued low density sawdust so as to make a board. In similar fashion the use of straw or other grass like materials. Also rice husks glued together into a board or matted insert could be used as a substitute for a polyurethane insulating element. All such products have been considered but H grade or VH grade extruded styrene is the preferred choice for the following reasons. H grade or VH grade styrene is stronger than most other suggested alternatives. H grade or VH grade styrene has a higher R value per centimeter than the other comparable materials. The cost and ease with which extruded styrene is produced makes it commercially viable.

The styrene insert may vary in thickness to satisfy the particular R value that is needed to meet the required standard that varying climatic conditions and government regulations require. The styrene insert may be offset to one side or the other however a centrally located insert is preferred. Cavity blocks may be constructed but the solid light weight block is preferred because of its greater surface face area for load bearing and bond wrench capabilities. Also, with cavity blocks load bearing requirements often dictate the need to fill the cavity with concrete. This significantly increases the overall costs.

A mould with alternative mould formations may be used for the production of alternative radii blocks according to an alternative embodiment. Thus, depending upon the radius size of the insert selected, this will produce blocks having a rock face with a predetermined radius and therefore a predetermined finish. FIGS. 14,15 and 16 show side elevation views of blocks 77, 78 and 79 formed using respective mould options so that the block face has a rock face which may be sized to leave respective distances from the top of the blocks 77, 78 and 79 of X, Y or Z for example. The block in FIG. 14 for instance has a rock face profile with a radius of 200 mm diameter. The block in FIG. 15 has a rock face of 180 radius and the block of FIG. 16 has a rock face radius of 150. Thus, as can be seen with reference to FIG. 14 the higher the radius selected for a particular block the shorter the distance between the rock face edge 80 and the edge 81 of the block.

FIG. 17 shows an end view of a wall section 82 comprising typical rock face block 83 and flat face block 84 separated by styrene insulating element 85. Block 70 is shown finished with rock face 73. Thus according to one embodiment, a wall of rock face blocks may be constructed with a rock face finish on an external face and an insulating insert between opposing bricks.

FIG. 18 shows a plan view of a block arrangement 86 comprising a first block 87 and opposing block 88 defining a space 89 therebetween. Space 89 receives and retains therein an element 90 which includes hollow regions 91 and 92. Element 90 may be disposed is in a manner which allows formation of a female gender recess 93 and male profile part 94 which both facilitate opposite gender engagement with end to end opposing blocks (not shown). Hollow regions 91 and 92 cause a lower R value. For opposing blocks of overall width 240 mm the R value will be in the order of R1.5.

FIG. 19 shows an end view of the arrangement of FIG. 18 with corresponding numbering.

FIG. 20 shows a plan view of a spaced apart block arrangement with polystyrene insulating element.

Block arrangement 95 comprising a first block 96 and opposing block 97 defining a space 98 therebetween. Space 98 receives and retains therein an element 99 which fills space 98. Element 99 may be disposed is in a manner which allows formation of a female gender recess 100 and male profile part 101 which both facilitate opposite gender engagement with end to end opposing blocks (not shown).

Since element 99 is totally solid, this will facilitate a higher R value in the region of 2.35 depending upon the thickness of blocks 96 and 97.

FIG. 21 shows an end view of the arrangement of FIG. 20 with corresponding numbering.

It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that numerous variations and modifications may be made to the invention as broadly described herein without departing from the overall spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A construction block for use in the construction of elemental structures, the block comprising a body having a bottom surface, a top surface, end surfaces, an outer surface which forms part of an outer surface of a structure and an inner face; at least one formation on or in at least the inner face and/or at least one of the end surfaces which receive/s and retain/s at least one insulating element; wherein, the insulating element provides thermal insulation for a structure formed from said construction blocks.

2. A construction block according to claim 1 wherein the at least one insulating element comprises a prismatic body made from a material having insulating properties; wherein the element is secured to said block via said at least one formation.

3. A construction block according to claim 2 wherein each said insulating element provides a thermal and water barrier to at least one face of each said building blocks.

4. A construction block according to claim 3 wherein each formation comprises a recess which provides a key to secure each said element to the block.

5. A construction block according to claim 4 wherein the construction block is formed in a mould from a cementitious matrix.

6. A construction block according to claim 5 wherein the block includes a formation in a surface which accommodates a corresponding formation in said insert.

7. A construction block according to claim 6 wherein the insert engages an inner surface of the block via said formations.

8. A construction block according to claim 7 wherein the formations which allow engagement between a construction block and said element are opposite gender.

9. A construction block according to claim 8 wherein each said element engages adjacent blocks.

10. A construction block according to claim 9 wherein an insulating element engages an end of a first construction block and an opposing end of a second adjacent constructions block.

11. A construction block according to claim 9 wherein an insulating element engages an inner wall of a first block and an inner wall of an opposing block

12. A construction block according to claim 1 wherein each insulating element is substantially the same dimension as one dimension of one face of said block.

13. A construction block according to claim 12 wherein the insulating element has a larger dimension than an adjacent surface of said block.

14. A construction block according to claim 13 wherein the insulating element and block have corresponding dovetail formations.

15. A construction block according to claim 14 wherein each insulating element is made from polystyrene.

16. A construction block according to claim 15 wherein an insulating element adjacent a block sits proud of a height dimension of said block.

17. A construction block according to claim 1 wherein the block is manufactured in a mould from a cementitious material including timber based aggregate.

18. A construction block according to claim 17 wherein each polystyrene insulating element is manufactured in a mould.

19. A construction block according to claim 18 wherein the at least one insulating element and block are integrally connected to form a composite building element.

20. An insulating element for use in a construction block for use in the construction of elemental structures, the block comprising: a body having a bottom surface, a top surface, end surfaces, an outer surface which forms part of an outer surface of a structure and an inner face; at least one formation on or in at least the inner face and/or at least one of the end surfaces which receive/s and retain/s at least one insulating element; wherein, the insulating element provides thermal insulation for a structure formed from said construction blocks.

21. An insulating element for a construction block according to claim 20 wherein the insulating element comprises a prismatic body made from a material having insulating properties; wherein the element is connected to the block via said at least one formation.

22. An insulating element for a construction block according to claim 21 wherein each said element provides a thermal and water barrier to at least one face of each building block.

23. An insulating element according to claim 22 wherein each formation in the construction block includes a recess providing a key to secure an insert to the block.

24. An insulating element according to claim 23 wherein the element is formed in a mould.

25. An insulating element according to claim 24 wherein the insulating element includes a formation which accommodates a corresponding formation in a surface in said block.

26. An insulating element according to claim 25 wherein the insulating element engages an inner surface of the block via said formations.

27. An insulating element according to claim 26 wherein the formations which allow engagement between a construction block and said element are opposite gender.

28. An insulating element according to claim 27 wherein each said insert engages adjacent blocks.

29. An insulating element according to claim 28 wherein an insert engages an end of a first block and an opposing end of a second adjacent block.

30. An insulating element according to claim 28 wherein, an insert engages an inner wall of a first block and an inner wall of an opposing block.

31. An insulating element according to claim 1 wherein, an insulating element has one dimension substantially the same as one dimension of one face of said block.

32. An insulating element according to claim 31 wherein, the insert has a larger dimension than an adjacent surface of said block.

33. An insulating element according to claim 32 wherein the insert and block have corresponding dovetail formations.

34. An insulating element according to claim 33 wherein each insulating element is made from polystyrene.

35. An insulating element according to claim 34 wherein an insert adjacent a block sits proud of the height of said block.

36. An insulating element according to claim 34 wherein the polystyrene insulating element is manufactured in a mould.

37. A structure manufactured from building blocks comprising a body having a bottom surface, a top surface, end surfaces, an outer surface which forms part of an outer surface of a structure and an inner face; at least one formation on or in at least the inner face and/or at least one of the end surfaces which receive/s and retain/s at least one insulating element; wherein, the insulating element provides thermal insulation for the structure formed from a composite building element comprising said blocks and said insulating element.

38. An insulating element for use in the thermal insulation of a wall constructed from building blocks made from a cementitious material; wherein, said element approximates the size of at least one face of a building block with which the insulating element is used, wherein, the polystyrene insert is adapted for integral attachment with at least one said building blocks such that a composite building element comprising said element and at least one said blocks is formed.

39. An insulating element according to claim 38 wherein, the insulating element is made from a material selected from insulating materials such as a plastics material, a resin, polystyrene.

40. A composite construction element for use in the construction of an elemental structure; wherein, the composite element comprises a construction block and an insulating element made from a material having insulating properties; wherein, the insulating element is integrally attached to an inner face of the block to thereby provide a thermal and water barrier to at least one face of each said building blocks.

41. A composite building block including an insulating element wherein the element provides a thermal and moisture barrier to said block wherein, said composite is prepared in a mould and the block is formed from a cementitious matrix; wherein said matrix is poured in said mould while said polystyrene element is in said mould; wherein the element and block mutually engage by opposing gender formations to form the composite block.

42. A composite construction block including an insulating element wherein the block is either a rectangular cube, square cube, triangular cube, polygonal.

43. A method of construction of a composite construction block wall having an insulating layer; wherein the method comprises the steps of

a) taking a mould capable of forming at least one building block;

b) preparing a cementitious matrix for formation of said blocks;

c) placing at least one insulating element into said mould at a predetermined location with in the mould;

d) pouring said matrix into said mould such that the matrix engages mould surfaces and at least one surface of said element;

e) allowing said matrix to set for a predetermined period of time;

f) removing said at least one block and said at least one element from said mould as a composite construction element.

44. A method according to claim 43 comprising the further step of constructing a wall from said composite construction blocks elements thereby producing a structure having increased insulating properties by virtue of said at least one insulating element.

45. A method of preparation of a structure formed from composite building blocks comprising a block and an associated insulating element connected to the block; the method comprising the steps of:

a) placing a mould of predetermined dimensions on a base surface;

b) placing at least one insulating element in said mould;

c) mixing a matrix of cementitious material and pouring said material into said mould so that the material forms at least one block;

d) allowing said at least one insulating element to engage said matrix so that said element forms a composite with said matrix;

e) allowing said matrix to set for a predetermined period;

f) removing said composite element and matrix from said mould.

46. A method according to claim 45 comprising the additional step before placing said insulating element in said mould of providing means on the element to allow the element to key into said matrix upon setting of said matrix

47. A method according to claim 46 comprising the further step of forming at least one gender profile in the insulating element to enable engagement with a corresponding opposite gender profile formed in the block when the matrix is poured against the insulating element the block.

48. A method according to claim 47 wherein, the insulating element is made from a material selected from a plastics material, a resin or polystyrene.

49. An insulating element according to claim 1 wherein the element is formed from a solid or flowable material selected from one or more of polystyrene, foaming polyurethane, foamed rubber, foamed concrete, vermiculite glued so as to make a board, fly ash also glued together, low density mineral products, organic inserts including glued low density sawdust so as to make a board, straw or other grass like materials, rice husks glued together into a board or matted insert.

50. A method of preparation of a structure formed from building blocks prepared in a mould; the method comprising the steps of:

a) forming a cement of clay fired moulded block such that the finished block includes surface formations therein on at least one surface;

b) taking at least two said blocks and placing said blocks so that said formations on said at least one surface of two said blocks are in spaced apart but opposing relationship to form a space formed therebetween;

c) filling said cavity between said at least two blocks with a flowable material capable of filling said cavity;

d) allowing said flowable material to set thereby creating a composite building element comprising said two blocks and said flowable material.

51. A method according to claim 50 wherein the flowable material is a foaming polyurethane or styrene or like product.

52. A method according to claim 51 wherein, the flowable material is preferably low density and fully penetrates the cavity formed between said blocks to form an insulating layer imparting to the building block insulating properties and a barrier to moisture.

53. A method according to claim 52 wherein two opposing bricks are placed with key profiles opposing each other and set to a predetermined width.

54. A composite construction element for use in the construction of an elemental structure; wherein, the composite element comprises first and second spaced apart construction blocks and an insulating element made from a material having insulating properties; wherein, the insulating element is integrally attached to an inner face of at least one said blocks to thereby provide a thermal and water barrier to at least one face of each said building blocks.

55. A composite element according to claim 54 wherein, the insulating element protrudes beyond one end of each said blocks forming a mating tongue and is terminated short of an opposite end of each said blocks.

56. A construction block according to claim 10 wherein an insulating element engages an inner wall of a first block and an inner wall of an opposing block.

57. An insulating element according to claim 29 wherein, an insert engages an inner wall of a first block and an inner wall of an opposing block.