3DCP-RPA: Modular construction of 3D-printed concrete beams with recycled plastic aggregate
Principal researcher:
José Luis Bonet Senach
Pedro Francisco Miguel Sosa
Team members:
- Miguel Ángel Fernández Prada
- José Ramón Albiol Ibáñez
- Miguel Sánchez López
- Celia Traver Abella
- Rogelio Franco Segarra
- Alberto García Cárcel
- José Vicente Cabo Navarro
Funding Agency:
Duration: 01/01/2023 – 31/12/2025
Reference: CIAICO/2022/184
Abstract
A more sustainable and competitive construction industry must necessarily address the challenge of climate change by focusing on reducing waste and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. To meet this challenge, additive manufacturing can help minimize waste and GHG emissions.
Currently, due to the growing demand for concrete, the consumption of natural aggregates is increasing and has become a major environmental concern. The reuse of non-biodegradable plastic waste materials can offer a solution to reduce the consumption of natural resources in construction and mitigate environmental risks. 3D printing of concrete with recycled plastic aggregates can contribute to a more sustainable construction industry and support the transition toward a circular economy.
The aim of this project is to advance toward modular construction of segmented concrete beams produced through 3D printing with recycled plastic aggregates (3DCP-RPA). Experimental studies will be carried out at three levels: characterization of the printed material with different types of recycled plastic aggregates; material and joint performance through push-off tests; and full-scale segmented 3DCP-RPA beams. For the printed segmented beams, various reinforcement integration strategies will be analyzed, as well as the use of hybrid construction technologies for the segments (digital and conventional construction).