3D-Printed Concrete Walls for Improved Energy & Construction Efficiency

Overview

This Notre Dame project aims to achieve high energy and construction efficiency through additive manufacturing (i.e., 3D printing) of concrete walls in buildings. 3D printing concrete offers new opportunities for advancing energy efficiency and manufacturing in building construction, with demonstrated savings in construction cost and time. This project will provide improved thermal efficiency while achieving the strength and ductility required for commercial, public works, and multistory residential buildings.

Project Goals

The proposed technology aims to achieve superior thermal performance (i.e., 50% improvement in thermal resistance) without compromising structural performance at no additional first cost. The project team conducts experimental and numerical thermal and structural investigations to develop design and construction methods. They will then demonstrate and validate the performance of the 3D-printed concrete walls.

Impacts

Achieving the target energy performance of 50% higher thermal resistance while providing 100% strength and ductility as conventional (non-3D-printed) walls at no additional first cost will significantly advance U.S. building construction. The project will impact commercial, public works, and multistory residential buildings, particularly in cold, mixed-humid, and marine climates, as these structures have some of the highest average site energy use intensity.

Technology Impact

The Notre Dame 3D-printing technology will reduce labor costs, increase efficiency, and provide thermal insulation, promising to improve both cost-effectiveness and energy efficiency.

Market Impact

This project’s successful implementation could lead to the widespread adoption of more efficient building practices, benefiting both the environment and building occupants.