Abstract:
This thesis focuses on the mix design optimization in 3D printable concrete and the
development of an automated continuous supply mechanism for the enhancement of current
state-of-the-art technology in 3D concrete printing. The addition of supplementary
cementitious materials like fly ash and sugarcane bagasse ash lends strength to the
sustainability and mechanical performance of 3DPC with reduced cement content. The
study has introduced an automated supply system, which enables continuous material flow
during printing for improved efficiency and print quality. Results from experiments proved
that mix designs and supply mechanisms that were optimized reduce labor significantly, with
lower environmental impact and enhanced reliability in 3D printing. This indicates that such
innovations could be critical to solving housing shortages in disaster-prone regions and
making the construction solution fast and sustainable. This paper contributes immense
amounts of insight into the field of 3DCP and suggests pathways forward for future
development and commercialization.
