According to statistics, the cement generates approximately 1.6 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions each year, representing 8% of world carbon emissions, and this 3D concrete printing technology provides an alternative to the reduction of emissions carbon.
NTU Singapore scientists have developed a 3D concrete printing technology that can capture carbon emissions, opening up new ways to reduce the environmental impact of the construction industry. Innovative technology has been published in the journal Carbon Capture Science & Technology to considerably reduce the carbon footprint of cement by reducing the use of materials, reducing construction time and reducing the demand for labor.
This 3D concrete printing process allows direct storage of CO2 by injecting steam with CO2 by-products from the industrial process in the concrete mixture. Research results show that this CO2 and steam injection method improves not only the mechanical properties of concrete, but also makes its resistance better than traditional 3D printed concrete.
The research team said that this innovation will not only help achieve the global objectives of sustainable development, but also supports the reduction in the dependence of the construction industry with regard to the processes in high energy reinforced concrete. Technology connects a 3D printer to a CO2 pump and a steam injection system, injecting CO2 and steam in concrete via the printing process. CO2 reacts with concrete components and is converted into a solid form and is permanently stored.
Experimental data show that technology improves the printability of 3D print concrete by 50%, and the resistance and sustainability of the structure are also considerably improved. Among them, compression resistance increased by 36.8% and bending resistance was increased by 45.3%. In addition, compared to traditional 3D printing methods, this method can absorb and store 38% carbon dioxide, which reflects higher environmental advantages.
The members of the research team have stressed that the world is currently accelerating its response to climate change, and this technology will contribute to the sustainable development of the construction industry. The team believes that the capture and use of carbon dioxide for 3D concrete printing build not only stronger and more environmentally friendly buildings, but will also push construction technology to new heights.
Currently, the Nanyang Technological University and its partners have jointly applied for an American patent.
