Skip to content

Application of Fractal Curves for 3D Concrete Printing of Porous Prefab Panels (2025-03)

 Li Yuhan,  Rian Iasef,  Chen Hanmei,  Tang Shu
Contribution - Proceedings of the 30th International Conference on Computer-Aided Architectural Design Research in Asia, pp. 111-120

Abstract

3D Concrete Printing (3DCP) is an innovative automated construction method gaining recognition for its remarkable potential in design flexibility, material efficiency, and rapid construction. However, challenges such as local buckling, inadequate porosity, and limited geometric exploration hinder its broader application, especially in creating lightweight, insulative prefab panels. This study introduces a novel toolpath design for 3D printing using fractal geometry to achieve controlled porosity, enhancing cavity precision, reducing material consumption, and maintaining structural integrity. Key research questions include the influence of nozzle size on porous, drying rates on layer adhesion, and material efficiency in extended toolpath designs. The methodology combines generative design and computational modeling using Grasshopper, structural analysis with Karamba, and empirical validation through physical prototyping. The anticipated outcomes include lightweight prefab panels with enhanced porosity, superior structural performance, and effective cavity-driven insulation. By demonstrating the potential of fractal-inspired toolpaths, this research aims to address critical challenges in 3DCP and contribute to the evolution of sustainable and innovative construction technologies.

11 References

  1. Ahmed Ghafur, Askandar Nasih, Jumaa Ghazi (2022-07)
    A Review of Large-Scale 3DCP:
    Material-Characteristics, Mix-Design, Printing-Process, and Reinforcement-Strategies
  2. Bi Minghao, Xia Lingwei, Tran Jonathan, Li Zhi et al. (2022-04)
    Continuous Contour-Zigzag Hybrid Tool-Path for Large-Format Additive Manufacturing
  3. Breseghello Luca, Naboni Roberto (2022-05)
    Tool-Path -Based Design for 3D Concrete Printing of Carbon-Efficient Architectural Structures
  4. Buswell Richard, Silva Wilson, Jones Scott, Dirrenberger Justin (2018-06)
    3D Printing Using Concrete-Extrusion:
    A Roadmap for Research
  5. Malaeb Zeina, Sakka Fatima, Hamzeh Farook (2019-02)
    3D Concrete Printing:
    Machine Design, Mix Proportioning, and Mix Comparison Between Different Machine Setups
  6. Marijnissen Marjolein, Zee Aant (2017-09)
    3D Concrete Printing in Architecture:
    A Research on the Potential Benefits of 3D Concrete Printing in Architecture
  7. Moelich Gerrit, Kruger Jacques, Combrinck Riaan (2020-08)
    Plastic Shrinkage Cracking in 3D Printed Concrete
  8. Nguyen Vuong, Li Shuai, Liu Junli, Nguyen Kien et al. (2022-11)
    Modelling of 3D Concrete Printing Process:
    A Perspective on Material and Structural Simulations
  9. Wan Qian, Yang Wenwei, Wang Li, Ma Guowei (2023-04)
    Global Continuous Path-Planning for 3D Concrete Printing Multi-Branched Structure
  10. Wang Li, Jiang Hailong, Li Zhijian, Ma Guowei (2020-02)
    Mechanical Behaviors of 3D Printed Lightweight Concrete Structure with Hollow Section
  11. Wolfs Robert, Suiker Akke (2019-06)
    Structural Failure During Extrusion-Based 3D Printing Processes

0 Citations

BibTeX 
@inproceedings{li_rian_chen_tang.2025.AoFCf3CPoPPP,
  author            = "Yuhan Li and Iasef Md. Rian and Hanmei Chen and Shu Tang",
  title             = "Application of Fractal Curves for 3D Concrete Printing of Porous Prefab Panels",
  year              = "2025",
  pages             = "111--120",
  booktitle         = "Proceedings of the 30th International Conference on Computer-Aided Architectural Design Research in Asia: Architectural Informatics",
  editor            = "Dagmar Reinhardt and Nicolas Rogeau and Christiane M. Herr and Anastasia Globa and Jielin Chen and Taro Narahara",
}
Formatted Citation

Y. Li, I. M. Rian, H. Chen and S. Tang, “Application of Fractal Curves for 3D Concrete Printing of Porous Prefab Panels”, in Proceedings of the 30th International Conference on Computer-Aided Architectural Design Research in Asia: Architectural Informatics, 2025, pp. 111–120.

Li, Yuhan, Iasef Md. Rian, Hanmei Chen, and Shu Tang. “Application of Fractal Curves for 3D Concrete Printing of Porous Prefab Panels”. In Proceedings of the 30th International Conference on Computer-Aided Architectural Design Research in Asia: Architectural Informatics, edited by Dagmar Reinhardt, Nicolas Rogeau, Christiane M. Herr, Anastasia Globa, Jielin Chen, and Taro Narahara, 111–20, 2025.