Offering the potential to significantly reduce CO2 emissions associated with construction, Hive3D Builders, a construction 3D printing company has developed a novel printing material, which replaces the usual mortar in 3D concrete printing. The development holds the promise of making the already eco-friendly method of additive manufacturing even more sustainable, with the potential to revolutionise the global construction industry.
Hive3D Builders, in collaboration with Eco Materials and Green Cement, has successfully developed a low-cost geopolymer cement replacement that reduces CO2 emissions by up to 93%. This substitute for traditional mortar used in 3D concrete printing is almost carbon-neutral, offering a sustainable alternative with improved strength and durability. Geopolymers, which have gained popularity as a sustainable building material, require less energy and produce fewer carbon dioxide emissions than traditional cement.
Not only does this new material contribute to a significant reduction in CO2 emissions, but it also provides superior strength and durability compared to traditional cement.
One of the key challenges in adopting 3D concrete printing has been the higher cost of materials. However, Hive3D Builders has overcome this obstacle by implementing a unique system that enables on-site mixing of the geopolymer cement replacement with locally sourced aggregates. As a result, the cost of the printing mortar is reduced to one-third of other available alternatives on the market.
The combination of environmental advantages, enhanced strength, and reduced costs has the potential to revolutionise the additive manufacturing (AM) industry. This breakthrough is expected to encourage construction companies to consider 3D concrete printing due to the significant cost savings, faster construction speed, and sustainability benefits it offers. With the support of its partner, CyBe Construction, Hive3D Builders aims to leverage its carbon-neutral material to bring about a transformative change in the global construction sector.
