Carbon nanotubes are transforming 3D-printed buildings by strengthening the concrete
In the evolving landscape of construction technology, the fusion of carbon nanotubes with 3D-printed cement materials is setting new benchmarks in structure integrity and efficiency. Dr. Tae Yeon Kim, Mohd Mukarram Ali, Ghaith Nassrullah, Prof. Rashid Abu Al-Rub and Dr. Bashar El-Khasawneh, with Seyed Hamidreza Ghaffar from University of Birmingham, studied this combinations, revealing how carbon nanotubes significantly enhance both the mechanical properties and printing quality of 3D-printed buildings. Their results were published in, a top 1% journal.
鈥淭raditionally, 3D printing cementitious materials poses certain challenges, involving a careful balance of printability, buildability, and the rheology of the mixture,鈥� Dr. Kim explains. 鈥淚ncorporating nanomaterials into 3D-printed cements is expected to minimize the setting time, limit pores and voids, reduce drying shrinkage, improve printing quality, and enhance the mechanical properties of the material.鈥�
Carbon nanotubes are known for their robustness and flexibility, exhibiting high mechanical strength, resistance to oxidation and corrosion, high conductivity, and thermal properties. They form nanoscale bridges within the cement matrix, which effectively distribute stress and mitigate the formation of micro cracks, enhancing the durability and longevity of structures.
The researchers showed that adding carbon nanotubes to the 3D printing process not only improved the printability of the cement but also considerably strengthened the resulting structures: A mix containing just 0.2 percent carbon nanotubes led to a 99 percent increase in flexural strength and a 72 percent increase in compressive strength once the cement had cured for 28 days.
Including carbon nanotubes also optimizes the printing process itself. The researchers found that their mix ensured a smoother flow through the printer nozzles, resulting in more uniform and structurally sound layers.
These findings offer a promising future for 3D-printed structures in the construction industry, where speed, cost-efficiency, and structural integrity are paramount.聽
Jade Sterling
Science Writer
27 May 2024
