Comparative environmental assessment of 3D concrete printing with engineered cementitious composites
Junhong Ye, Zicheng Zhuang, Fei Teng, Jie Yu, Dong Zhang, Yiwei Weng
Abstract
Engineered cementitious composites (ECC) with superior tensile properties have potential to print self-reinforced structures. However, the environmental performance of 3D concrete printing with ECC (3DP-ECC) lacks further investigation. This study evaluates the environmental impacts of structures printed with 3DP-ECC via life cycle assessment. Results show that 3DP-ECC incorporating incineration bottom ash (IBA), crumb rubber (CR), and limestone powder (LP) reduce carbon emission by 25%, 24%, and 47%, respectively, compared to that of reinforced concrete (RC) with a steel ratio of 1.01%. A frame structure printed by LP-ECC reduces carbon emission by 42% compared to that of the unit fabricated by mold-cast RC (MC-RC). A circle house printed by LP-ECC reduces carbon emission by 28% compared to that of the counterpart fabricated by MC-RC. Sensitivity analysis identifies the transportation distance range to achieve a sustainable 3DCP. The findings provide a guideline to select appropriate 3DP-ECC and construction methods for sustainable construction.