Influence of Fibers and Iron Dust on the Electrical Conductivity of 3D-Printed Concrete Mixes (2025-06)¶

Providing traditional concrete with electrical conductivity could open new possibilities and applications, such self-sensing structures or heated pavements. The main objective of this study is to analyse the electrical conductivity of various concrete mixtures oriented for 3D-printing by incorporating steel fibres (SF), carbon fibres (CF), and iron dust (ID). Fifteen mixtures were designed with fibres and iron dust contents ranging from 1% to 5%, and specimens measuring 40x40x160 mm were produced. Both mechanical properties and electrical conductivity were analysed, along with the effect of saturation degree. Results show that mixtures with SF, CF, and ID enhanced conductivity, although contents beyond 2%-3% of fibres did not further improve this property.