Analysis of the Effect of Substituting Cement with Marble-Powder on the Mortar Characteristics Used in 3D Printing (2024-09)¶

The aim of this research is to experimentally study the valorisation and recycling of cut and processing waste marble by partially substituting ce-ment in mortars during 3D printing in civil engineering. The case study con-cerns the use of Tunisian marble powder as a mineral material to replace ce-ment in the formulation of a printable cementitious material. The aim is to con-tribute to the reduction of the carbon footprint of mortars in addition to the ma-terial gains already provided by 3D printing. For that, cement was substituted with 15% marble powder by mass, investigating its impact on mortar properties. The study examined marble powder's particle morphology effects on printabil-ity and tested compressive/flexural strengths of different formulations. Results showed improved workability and short-term compressive strength with marble powder substitution. Utilizing marble powder as a cement substitute offers a sustainable solution, reducing cement consumption without loosing perfor-mance.