3-Dimensional Construction Printing: Process Optimization

Ever-growing concerns related to affordable housing and climate change in Canada and beyond have necessitated innovative approaches in the construction industry. The construction industry is poised for new technologies that will address the housing crisis, particularly in northern and remote areas, and mitigate infrastructure needs in flood-prone areas (e.g., retaining walls). Additive manufacturing, also known as 3D printing, has revolutionized manufacturing and is well-suited to address large-scale construction challenges. Despite recent progress in 3D construction printing (3DCP), there are still major limitations in current systems related to reliable printable materials, optimization of the process, and the weak interlayers resulting from the layered fabrication process. Initially, this project delves into material characterization, including developing a concrete mix model for Finite Element (FE) analysis. At the same time, strength-curing time analysis and layer bonding investigations will be performed to ascertain optimal deposition thickness and rate. Then, in the next step, patterns for constructing hollow walls will be studied to find the optimal pattern to enhance transverse stiffness, buckling stability, and deposition time while ensuring satisfactory structural strength properties. Furthermore, FE analysis will be conducted to assess the bonding properties between the deposition layers and will be validated through experimental studies. Emphasizing the integration of theoretical modelling and practical experimentation, the project seeks to advance 3DCP technology, offering solutions to housing shortages in the face of global demographic shifts and climate-induced challenges. The outcomes aim to contribute significantly to the construction industry, promoting efficiency, affordability, and sustainability in housing construction, with potential applications both in Canada and globally.

Faculty Supervisor:

Maria Anna Polak;Hassan Baaj;Hassan Baaj;Maria Anna Polak;Amir Khajepour

Student:

Partner:

AMIDA 3D

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Construction and infrastructure

University:

University of Waterloo

Program: