According to statistics, cement produces approximately 1.6 billion tons of carbon dioxide emissions every year, accounting for 8% of global carbon emissions, and this concrete 3D printing technology provides an alternative that can reduce carbon emissions.
Scientists at Nanyang Technological University Singapore (NTU Singapore) have developed 3D concrete printing technology that captures carbon emissions, paving the way for new ways to reduce the environmental impact of the construction sector. construction. This innovative technology, published in the journal Carbon Capture Science & Technology, aims to significantly reduce the carbon footprint of cement by reducing material usage, construction time and labor requirements.
The concrete 3D printing process directly stores CO2 by injecting steam and CO2, a byproduct of industrial processes, into the concrete mix. Research results show that this CO2 and steam injection method not only improves the mechanical properties of concrete, but also makes it stronger than traditional 3D printed concrete.
The research team claims that this innovation not only contributes to achieving global sustainable development goals, but also helps reduce the construction sector’s reliance on energy-intensive reinforced concrete processes. The technology connects a 3D printer to a CO2 pump and steam injection system to inject CO2 and steam into the concrete throughout the printing process. The CO2 reacts with concrete ingredients and is converted to a solid form for permanent storage, while the steam promotes CO2 absorption and improves structural performance.
Experimental data shows that this technology increases the printability of 3D printed concrete by 50%, and the strength and durability of the structure are also significantly improved. Among them, the compressive strength increased by 36.8% and the bending strength increased by 45.3%. Additionally, compared to traditional 3D printing methods, this method can absorb and store 38% more carbon dioxide, reflecting higher environmental benefits.
Members of the research team highlighted that the world is currently accelerating its response to climate change and that this technology will contribute to the sustainable development of the construction industry. The team believes that capturing and using carbon dioxide for 3D printing of concrete will not only build stronger, more environmentally friendly buildings, but will also propel construction technology to new levels. summits.
Currently, Nanyang Technological University and its partners have jointly applied for a patent in the United States. Future research will continue to optimize the printing process, improve efficiency, and try to use waste gas to replace pure carbon dioxide to further reduce environmental impact.
