
Hebert Rossetto
Federal University of Pelotas, Brazil
Abstract Title: Challenges of 3D Printing for Cementitious Materials
Biography:
Civil engineer (2002) and PhD in Materials Science and Engineering (2007), both from the University of São Paulo (USP), acted as a Marie-Curie Research Fellow at the University of Birmingham, UK (2010-11). Now, as an adjunct professor at the Federal University of Pelotas, Brazil, the author is inspired by the new frontiers of engineering and, to be an active part of it, holds a research vision that embraces underlying concepts and experimental tests, with the aid of multi-disciplinary knowledge and techniques, to turn results therefrom into innovation for the market.
Research Interest:
Challenges of 3D Printing for Cementitious Materials Hebert Rossetto Federal University of Pelotas, 96010-610, Brazil The challenges of 3D printing for cementitious materials are extensive and complex. It requires a careful examination of various factors to ensure the successful implementation of this emerging technology. One significant hurdle lies in the mechanical properties of cementitious materials, which typically lack sufficient tensile capacity and ductility for many applications. This limitation demands the incorporation of tensile reinforcement to bolster the material's structural integrity. To advance the 3D printing of cementitious materials, precise control over the structural build-up is essential. This entails mastering their processing, flow behavior, placing, activation, and hardening processes. Additionally, addressing issues related to toughness, durability, compliance with building codes, and economic feasibility is crucial for the widespread adoption of digital fabrication in concrete construction. Current high-performance cement-based materials face challenges in direct 3D printing due to inadequate rheological and stiffening properties. Active control over rheology and stiffening mechanisms offers promising avenues for expanding the material palette suitable for 3D printing applications. Moreover, optimizing structures and incorporating functional design strategies can minimize material usage, transitioning from traditional formwork-based methods to more automated additive manufacturing approaches. On the other hand, the anisotropic nature of 3D-printed cementitious materials presents challenges in structural and durability design, giving rise to the development of new design codes and testing protocols tailored to digital manufacturing processes. Integrating vertical reinforcement in 3D-printed cementitious materials elements remains a critical obstacle that requires innovative solutions. Embracing digital and unconventional technologies in concrete construction demands a shift from material-centric approaches toward interdisciplinary collaborations between academia and industry. Establishing robust research partnerships will foster innovation and drive the evolution of cementitious materials science.