Work

Effect of fly ash and ground waste glass as cement replacement in concrete 3D-Printing for sustainable construction

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: Concrete 3D printing is a promising manufacturing technology for producing geometrically complex structures efficiently and cost-effectively, by eliminating the need for formwork, reducing labor, and minimizing waste. This method has the potential to lower carbon emissions and resource use. However, it does not mitigate the carbon emissions associated with cement production. Nonetheless, utilizing waste materials in concrete 3D printing may reduce concrete carbon emissions and support recycling. This study investigates the use of two industrial waste materials–fly ash (FA) and ground waste glass (GWG)–as partial substitutes for ordinary Portland Cement (PC) in 3D printable cement paste. The chemical composition, particle size distribution, rheological properties, and flexural strength of the mixtures were analyzed. Results show that specimens containing waste materials achieved strengths comparable to traditional cement mixtures. The flexural strength reduction in 3D printed versus cast specimens varied across mixtures: control (66% reduction), FA20 (35%), FA10-GWG10 (35%), GWG10 (32%), FA10 (11%), and GWG20 (4%). Hence, incorporating waste materials in concrete 3D printing is recommended, as it maintains mechanical integrity while promoting recycling and upcycling of industrial waste.

Source: Frontiers in Built Environment

DOI: 10.3389/fbuil.2024.1430174

Authors: Phebe Samrani, Yifang Cao, Gustavo Fimbres-Weihs, Eric Sanjaya, Ali Abbas

Institution: The University of Sydney

Language: English

Topic: Innovations in Concrete and Construction Materials

Subfield: Building and Construction

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Responsible consumption and production, Climate action, Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,125