Development of ductile concrete for visual sensor enabled 3D printing

• Main Author: Lim, Joo Ee
• Other Authors: Fu Yuguang
• Format: Final Year Project
• Language: English
• Published: Nanyang Technological University 2024
• Subjects: Engineering; 3D-printing technology in construction sector
• Online Access: https://hdl.handle.net/10356/177389
• Institution: Nanyang Technological University

Novel 3D-printing technology provides unlimited opportunities for various industries, including the building and construction industry. The 3D printing system can automatically and remotely dispense or spray advanced construction material, such as concrete material onto desired surfaces or sites and to the specified dimensions, tolerances, features or patterns. However, traditional concrete materials used in 3D printing processes often exhibit brittleness and susceptibility to cracking, limiting their durability and structural integrity. As such, this dual Final Year Project aims to present the development of ductile concrete formulations coupled with visual sensor-enabled 3D printing applications for surface crack detection purposes. Through a combination of material engineering and advanced sensing technologies, the proposed approach aims to enhance the resilience and longevity of 3D printed structures while enabling close to real-time monitoring of crack formation and propagation. Key aspects of this research include the design and optimisation of ductile concrete mixtures, the integration of visual sensor systems for crack detection, and the validation of the proposed approach through experimental testing and analysis. The outcomes of this study have significant implications for the advancement of 3D printing technology in construction, offering improved performance, sustainability, and safety in future infrastructure projects.