Embodied Carbon of Structural Earthen Composites with Natural Materials and Byproducts Suitable for Robotic 3D Printing (2024-07)¶

The objective of this research is focused on 3D printing techniques using natural materials in the construction sector. Digital fabrication has captured widespread attention for its remarkable ability to craft parametric and complex geometry with relative ease. Beyond its technical prowess, this process holds great potential in addressing two pressing issues: waste management and carbon emissions, to reduce costs and environmental impacts. This study assesses the eco-efficiency of 3D printing with earthen composites compared to conventional construction materials in large-scale Robotic fabrication, employing the life cycle assessment (LCA) framework to quantify the environmental impacts of materials suitable for 3D printing. An eco-efficiency analysis was employed to aggregate the results of LCA into a single framework to assist in decision-making by selecting the most optimized and eco-efficient alternative. The findings indicate that shell structures built using additive manufacturing and 3D printed materials can be better optimized for efficiency. This paper comprehensively examines 3D printing with earth materials, focusing particularly on biocomposites, byproducts, and direct extrusion printing methods. Comparative analysis highlights the materials, processes, and industries driving these advancements. There has been a surge of interest in reinforcing 3D-printed structures with natural fibres and additives. A significant aspect of this study explores how 3D printing, especially when utilizing natural materials and byproduct-based composites, can contribute positively to the environment.