By purchasing through a BGR link, you can help us earn an affiliate commission, which supports our expert product labs.
The search for more sustainable concrete as an alternative to the environmentally harmful Portland cement has made significant advancements. This innovation takes the shape of a novel type of 3D-printed concrete that showcases enhanced strength and durability compared to traditional concrete. Furthermore, the production process of this concrete results in significantly reduced carbon emissions, contributing to the global effort to combat climate change.
A major aspect of a research project by researchers from the University of Virginia focused on developing stronger concrete suitable for 3D printing. The team aimed to devise a material that was not only environmentally friendly but also retained strength and flexibility in 3D construction applications.
The breakthrough they identified involved a new formulation of 3D-printed concrete created by blending limestone and calcined clay cement (LC2) with graphene. A crucial element of the study was evaluating how effective this innovative concrete could be in mitigating greenhouse gas emissions.
A group of researchers conducted a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and discovered that this innovative concrete could decrease greenhouse gas emissions by as much as 31 percent in comparison to various alternative concrete mixtures—and perhaps even more when evaluated against Portland cement, which is the global standard for construction.
Subscribe for the latest updates in technology and entertainment news.
By subscribing, I accept the Terms of Use and have reviewed the Privacy Notice.
Nevertheless, achieving widespread adoption of this type of 3D-printed concrete will not be straightforward, and researchers have significant work ahead before it can be considered mainstream for the construction industry. Nonetheless, it is encouraging to witness potential solutions to our global warming challenges on the horizon, even if the UN expresses concern that achieving these objectives may be unlikely.