Environmental Influence on the Smart Self-Sensing 3D-Printed Concrete Column (2026-04)¶

This study investigates the influence of environmental factors on the self-sensing performance of 3D-printed cementitious composites for structural health monitoring. Square 3D printed column samples containing control mortar and self-sensing cementitious composite (SSCC) were fabricated and cured, then exposed to controlled drying cycles and temperature variations from room temperature to 60°C. Under cyclic compressive loading, changes in electrical resistance were monitored to evaluate the fractional change in resistivity (FCR) and stress sensitivity. The results demonstrate that both internal moisture variation and elevated temperature significantly affect the piezoresistive sensitivity. Although resistance decreased with an increase in humidity and temperature, a better piezoresistive response was captured at the oven-dried low temperature state. The highest stress sensitivity of 12.45%/ksi at 22.5C at the lowest water saturation. This study highlights the critical role of environmental effect in the deployment of smart 3D-printed concrete for the monitoring of durable infrastructure.