Development of environmentally friendly materials for 3D concrete printing

点击翻译按钮获取中文摘要

Construction industry has been moving towards automation. One of the most promising and fast-growing automated construction technologies is printing houses and other structures using a 3D concrete printer (3DCP). The 3D concrete printing technology has many advantages such as reduced construction time, cost saving, better quality control, enhanced work-place safety, lesser use of materials, and almost zero-waste in construction materials. Current 3D printing material uses a large amount of Portland cement (PC) as the binder and natural filler materials (sand and crushed stones). Hence, these printing materials are environmentally harmful because the production of PC is responsible for about 8% of total Carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases (GHG). Additionally, the use of natural filler materials creates a significant amount of GHG emission and depletion of our natural resources. Hence, the goal of this study is to develop urgently needed sustainable (environmentally friendly) printing materials for 3DCP that will significantly cutdown the use of PC and natural resources (sand and crushed stones). The goal will be achieved by using Canadian waste materials such as construction and demolition wastes, recycled glass products, recycled vehicle tyres. Hence, the outcome of this research will help in reducing Canada's GHG emission, alleviating landfill problem, and protecting natural resources. Additionally, the outcomes of this research will position Canadian engineering and construction companies and Canada as the leader in the automated and green construction technique using 3D concrete printer and environmentally friendly materials. As a result, new jobs will be created, and Canadian economy will be benefitted. This research will be executed by students who will be trained in various aspects of green construction materials and use of 3D printing in the construction. These highly trained and skilled students will be able to bridge the skills gap in Canada.