3D Finite Element Analysis on the Effects of Boundary Elements Confinement on Cyclic Performance of 3D Printed Concrete Wall (2026-04)¶

3D concrete printing offers substantial benefits to the construction industry, including the fabrication of customized components, elimination of formwork, and reduction in material waste. However, achieving structural integrity and ductility through effective reinforcement integration remains a significant challenge, particularly under cyclic loading conditions. To address this, the present study investigates the influence of reinforcement detailing on the cyclic performance of 3D printed concrete (3DPC) walls. Finite element (FE) simulations are conducted on 3DPC walls with confined boundary elements to evaluate their lateral load resistance and deformation capacity. The walls are designed in accordance with codal provisions and assessed based on ductility, energy dissipation, and lateral load resistance properties. The FE model incorporates advanced material modeling to capture nonlinear cyclic behavior and provides insights into load carrying capacity, stress distribution and failure mechanisms. The effects of key design parameters such as configuration of confined boundary elements, reinforcement placement, and material anisotropy arising from the layer-by-layer printing process are considered through the micro modelling approach. The results demonstrate that confined boundary elements significantly enhance the cyclic performance of 3DPC walls by improving ductility and delaying the catastrophic failure. Additionally, the study identifies that such reinforcement strategies are compatible with the 3D printing process, ensuring both practicality and structural effectiveness. The outcomes have important implications on bridging the gap in codified design approaches for 3DPC, while offering a framework for designing seismic-resistant 3D-printed structures and advancing their application in dynamic and large-scale structural systems.