RETRACTED: Utilization of solid mine waste in the building materials for 3D printing

Area of Science:

• Construction Materials Science
• Sustainable Architecture
• Additive Manufacturing

Background:

• 3D printing in architecture offers a green revolution, but solid waste utilization impacts concrete properties.
• There's a need for alternative materials to enhance 3D printable concrete performance and cost-effectiveness.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate fine limestone powders as a sustainable replacement for natural sand in 3D concrete printing.
• To determine the optimal limestone powder content for improved printability, buildability, and mechanical strength.
• To evaluate the impact of limestone powder on concrete's microstructure, flowability, shrinkability, and bonding.

Main Methods:

• Experimental characterization of concrete properties including microstructures, flowability, buildability, shrinkability, and mechanical strength.
• Development of a method to characterize printable properties and determine optimal replacement ratios.
• Analysis of layer-interface and interlayer bonding strength in 3D printed concrete specimens.

Main Results:

• A 40% limestone powder substitution optimized concrete grading, enhancing printability and buildability.
• Microstructures became denser, leading to a 45% improvement in mechanical properties.
• Higher replacement ratios reduced flowability, increased shrinkage, and trapped air, negatively impacting mechanical properties.

Conclusions:

• Fine limestone powder is a viable eco-friendly material for 3D concrete printing, improving sustainability and resource utilization.
• Optimized limestone powder content enhances concrete's printability and mechanical performance.
• This approach promotes sustainable development in the construction sector through effective solid waste management.