Abstract:
Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to a low density monolithic fiber cement article that incorporates controlled air entrainment evenly distributed throughout the article to improve various physical properties of the article. In some implementations, air entrainment agents are used to create voids in the article, thereby lowering the density and weight of the boards while maintaining adequate strength. In some implementations, the air entrainment agents can be added in solution to create a foam, or can be used to generate a pre-foam, which can be added to a cementitious paste. The cementitious paste incorporating the air entrainment agent can proceed through an extrusion process, experiencing high pressures, where the voids remain in the final monolithic fiber cement board.