A world-first project will investigate if it is possible to print fibro reinforced polymer along with concrete at the University of South Australia.
A $402,000 ARC Discovery Grant has been awarded to Professor Yan Zhuge to research the 3D printing of reinforced concrete.
While 3D printing is now common in digital construction, it is currently restricted to printing concrete, not the reinforced material, so it cannot be applied in a real-world setting, according to UniSA.
“This is the first research project in the world to see if it’s possible to simultaneously print fibro reinforced polymer along with concrete,” Prof. Zhuge said.
The three-year project will also investigate a sustainable 3D printing alternative to Portland cement, the alkali-activated slag binder that hardens quickly and has significantly lower CO₂ emissions.
Professor Zhuge believes the research findings will shape the next generation of digital construction in which robotics will be used to replace manual labour.
The project is due to start in July 2025.
Image credit: Heidelberg Materials Australia.
About the author
Desi Corbett
Desi is the Editor of Concrete in Australia and at the helm of our magazine for 8 years. She was behind the Institute's weekly news bulletins from 2016-2021 and is now writing our focused news items. Desi has been an engineering news and features journalist/editor across all disciplines since 2013 - part of a 30-year career writing for a wide range of industries.