A Study of An Alternative Material for 3D printing in Building Construction

Abstract

Currently, 3D printing technology in the construction industry is growing in line with the era of the Industrial Revolution 4.0. Finding alternative and suitable materials for 3D printing that is more local in nature is a priority of the local construction industry. This study was conducted to assess the characteristics, properties and evaluate the suitability of new materials for use in 3D printing in construction. Three samples were prepared by mixing PU foam with fine sand. PU foam is used as a binder with a mixture ratio of 1:1 for each of Part A and Part B foam solutions. This material has been mixed with fine sand weighing 200 grams, 300 grams and 400 grams respectively. Subsequently the mixture of this material was put into the mold and the time for the expanding and hardening of the material was recorded. The results of the study found that the three samples showed good flow properties and the time recorded by the three samples to harden was within 30 seconds, 35 seconds and 40 seconds. These results indicate that the use of PU foam as a binder material mixed with fine sand has the potential to be used as a material for 3D printing machines.