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Effect of Curing Methods on Shrinkage Development in 3D-Printed Concrete
Karol Federowicz1, Maria Kaszyńska1, Adam Zieliński1
1Faculty of Civil Engineering and Architecture, West Pomeranian University of Technology in Szczecin, Al. Piastów 50, 70-311 Szczecin, Poland.
Materials (Basel, Switzerland)
|June 11, 2020
Summary
Researchers developed a new method to measure shrinkage in 3D-printed concrete. Optimal shrinkage reducing admixtures (4%) cut total shrinkage by 23% without impacting 28-day strength.
Area of Science:
- Construction Engineering
- Materials Science
- Additive Manufacturing
Background:
- 3D printing in construction offers design freedom, but cement material shrinkage poses a significant challenge.
- Advancements in CAD and 3D printing technologies facilitate the use of concrete-based materials in construction.
- Controlling shrinkage is crucial for the structural integrity and performance of 3D-printed concrete elements.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present an innovative method for measuring shrinkage-induced deformations in 3D-printed concrete.
- To compare the effects of internal and external curing methods on concrete shrinkage and deformations.
- To evaluate the influence of shrinkage reducing admixtures and foil insulation on concrete hardening and mechanical properties.
Main Methods:
- Development and application of an original measurement technique for shrinkage deformations.
- Testing of base concrete mixes and comparative analysis of internal vs. external curing.
- Assessment of concrete mechanical properties (EN 196-1, EN 12390-2) under different curing conditions (no curing, foil insulation, shrinkage reducing admixtures).
Main Results:
- An optimal shrinkage reducing admixture content of 4% (by cement mass) reduced total shrinkage by 23%.
- Internal curing positively influenced mechanical properties over 28 days.
- Shrinkage reducing admixtures did not affect 28-day concrete strength but slowed early-stage strength development (first 7 days).
Conclusions:
- The developed measurement method effectively quantifies shrinkage in 3D-printed concrete.
- Shrinkage reducing admixtures are a viable solution for mitigating deformation in 3D-printed concrete, with optimal dosage at 4%.
- Internal curing enhances mechanical properties, while shrinkage reducing admixtures offer a balance between shrinkage control and early strength development.
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