Multi-material 3D concrete printing: Automated hybrid reinforcements using textile and strain-hardening cementitious composites

Research output: Contribution to journalResearch articleContributedpeer-review

Contributors

  • Fei Teng - , Hong Kong Polytechnic University (First author)
  • Minxin Yang - , Hong Kong Polytechnic University (Author)
  • Jie Yu - , Hong Kong Polytechnic University (Author)
  • Yiwei Weng - , Hong Kong Polytechnic University (Author)
  • Viktor Mechtcherine - , Chair of Construction Materials (Author)

Abstract

3D concrete printing (3DCP) faces challenges in reinforcement integration. This study proposes a multi-material printing strategy incorporating carbon textiles and highly flowable SHCC bonding agents as hybrid reinforcements. A custom three-channel nozzle was developed to enable synchronized mortar deposition and reinforcement placement with a demonstration in the physical world. The effects of textile grid size and reinforcement configuration on flexural performance were evaluated through four-point bending tests. Results showed that, compared to the reference group, the specimen with dense grids (5 mm) achieved a 305.6 % enhancement in flexural strength (from 3.6 MPa to 14.6 MPa) and a 3100 % improvement in ultimate deflection (0.2 mm–6.4 mm), respectively. When the specimen was fully reinforced at every interface, the energy dissipation was 383.3 % higher than that of the specimen only reinforced at the bottom interface. A theoretical model with 87.3 %–95.2 % accuracy was proposed. These findings demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed strategy in simultaneously enhancing the flexural strength and ductility in 3DCP.

Details

Original languageEnglish
Article number106361
Number of pages18
JournalCement and Concrete Composites
Volume165
Publication statusPublished - Jan 2026
Peer-reviewedYes

External IDs

Scopus 105018300873

Keywords

Research priority areas of TU Dresden

DFG Classification of Subject Areas according to Review Boards

Subject groups, research areas, subject areas according to Destatis

Keywords

  • 3D concrete printing, Strain-hardening cementitious composites, Bonding agent, Multi-material printing, Flexural properties, Textiles