Hive3D Builders, a construction 3D printing company, has developed a carbon-neutral alternative to traditional cement – offering the potential to significantly reduce CO2 emissions associated with construction. This novel printing material, which replaces the usual mortar in 3D concrete printing, can reportedly cut down CO2 emissions by a remarkable 93%. The development holds the promise of making the already eco-friendly method of additive manufacturing even more sustainable, with the potential to revolutionize the global construction industry.
The construction industry has long been a significant contributor to environmental challenges. While 3D concrete printing technology already offers a greener alternative to conventional methods due to its efficient material usage and lower waste production, Hive3D Builders’ innovation takes the sustainability factor a step further.
Working in collaboration with Eco Materials and Green Cement, Hive3D Builders has developed a low-cost geopolymer cement replacement with up to 93% lower CO2 emissions. The resulting substitute for the mortar usually used in 3D concrete printing is nearly carbon-neutral. Geopolymers, which have gained popularity as a sustainable building material, require less energy and produce fewer carbon dioxide emissions than traditional cement. Additionally, they can use industrial waste materials such as fly ash, slag, and mining tailings, thereby reducing demand for natural resources and offering a waste disposal solution.
Manufacturing on Demand
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. The increased adhesion properties of the geopolymer-based material offer the potential for building more resilient structures, with properties such as excellent strength, high durability, and fire resistance.
Despite the environmental benefits of 3D concrete printing, the high cost of the material compared to regular concrete has been a barrier for many construction companies. However, Hive3D Builders has managed to address this issue as well. The company has developed a unique system to automatically mix the geopolymer cement replacement on-site with hyper-locally sourced aggregates, reducing the cost of its printing mortar to a third of the price of other commercially available alternatives.
This combination of environmental benefits, superior strength, and lower costs could be a game-changer for the AM industry. It is expected to pave the way for many construction companies to consider 3D concrete printing, given the significant potential cost savings, increased construction speed, and sustainability benefits. With the support of its partner, CyBe Construction, Hive3D Builders aims to harness the power of its carbon-neutral material to revolutionize the global construction industry.
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Author: Edward Wakefield
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