Seaweed-based additive makes earthen 3D-printed buildings stronger and faster
TL;DR
Researchers from the University of Colorado Boulder and Columbia University found that adding a tiny amount (0.12%) of the seaweed-derived biopolymer sodium alginate to local clay and sand dramatically improves 3D printability and strength of earthen structures, enabling 33% faster printing and 25% higher load resistance. The approach allows onsite soil recycling, reduces reliance on concrete, and could spur discovery of other natural polymers to boost durability of 3D-printed earthen walls.
- Scientists use food-grade biopolymer to 3D-print earthen structures Interesting Engineering
- Ice cream ingredient helps 3D printer create sturdy dirt walls Institution of Mechanical Engineers - IMechE
- CU Boulder researchers find seaweed derivative makes earthen materials viable for 3D printing VoxelMatters
- Seaweed-based ingredient helps turn dirt into 3D-printed walls Tech Xplore
- Researchers Turned Seaweed into Durable Construction Materials Tomorrow's World Today
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