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Through the project , Microlight3D aims to 3D print concrete molds with microtopography variations at their surface , which allow for the insertion of steel microfibers . In theory , the resulting photonic meta-material could then be capable of turning solar heat into infrared rays that can be self-sufficiently expelled by buildings , without using any extra energy .
“ Microlight3D is proud to participate in a project aimed at creating cities that are more pleasant to live in and more respectful of the environment ,” said Philippe Paliard , cofounder and Head of Users & Applications at Microlight3D . “ It is exciting to see that our two-photon polymerization technology can offer solutions to , and have a real impact on , combating environmental issues .”
Elsewhere , scientists at the Swinburne University of Technology and Hebei University of Technology have turned demolition waste into a sustainable new 3D printing material . Based on a combination of concrete aggregate , ceramsite particles and desert sand , the team ’ s novel formulation is said to yield structures with a skeletal-like level of self-support .
“ Much research is also being conducted into new materials that yield infrastructure with enhanced properties . ”
ECO-FRIENDLY CONCRETE ALTERNATIVES With 3D printing continuing to gather momentum in the construction sector , much research is also being conducted into new materials that yield infrastructure with enhanced properties . At UC Berkeley , researchers have developed a means of reinforcing concrete structures with 3D printed polymer octet lattices .
Rather than formulating an entirely new concrete , BigRep and Forward AM have taken a different approach to supporting the construction sector with their Concrete Formwork filament . Launched in May 2021 , the material is designed to enable the creation of precast concrete supports , while providing cost and lead time savings to its adopters . RACA
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RACA Journal I September 2021 www . hvacronline . co . za