3D Printing Concrete

Our team has developed a manufacturing process that can 3D print cementitious objects using a methodology called "particle bed 3D printing by selective binder activation". The objects can be produced with any shape, including overhangs and voids that are difficult or impossible to achieve with other approaches. The resulting artifacts have good geometric accuracy and mechanical characteristics. Innovative approaches are being used also to integrate reinforcement. Finally, new techniques for multi-material topology optimization are being developed to take full advantage of these new manufacturing capabilities. This project is partially funded by and completed in collaboration with Buzzi Unicem USA. Additional funding is provided by the Pennsylvania Department of Comunity and Economic Development.