In a notable leap forward for sustainable construction, researchers from the University of Virginia (UVA) have developed an advanced 3D-printed cementitious composite. By combining graphene with limestone and calcined clay cement (LC2), this new material significantly reduces carbon emissions while enhancing the strength and durability of 3D-printed concrete. These improvements position it as a viable, eco-friendly option for modern construction, addressing the dual challenges of reducing carbon footprints and meeting performance standards.
At the core of this breakthrough is a carefully engineered composite that blends LC2 with graphene, an additive known for its exceptional mechanical properties. Led by Professor Osman Ozbulut from UVA’s Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, the team aimed to create a sustainable, high-performance concrete alternative. “Our goal was to design a printable concrete that performs better and is more eco-friendly,” explains Ozbulut. “The addition of graphene to LC2 cement offers a unique opportunity to lower carbon emissions while maintaining the strength and flexibility required for 3D-printed construction.”
Key to this development was a comprehensive study focusing on the material’s flow properties, mechanical performance, and environmental impact. Led by Tuğba Baytak and Tawfeeq Gdeh, doctoral researchers at UVA’s Resilient and Advanced Infrastructure Laboratory, the team partnered with the Virginia Transportation Research Council (VTRC). By applying graphene to LC2 cement, they achieved a 23% increase in the material’s mechanical strength, making it well-suited for 3D-printed applications.
To assess the environmental impact, Zhangfan Jiang, a postdoctoral researcher, conducted a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) with guidance from UVA environmental engineering professor Lisa Colosi Peterson. Their LCA revealed that this new graphene-enhanced LC2 concrete reduces greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 31% compared to traditional 3D-printable concrete mixtures. “Being able to see the full environmental footprint of this new concrete was important,” says Jiang. “It not only exhibits better mechanical performance but also has a lower environmental impact, making 3D concrete construction technology more sustainable compared to traditional methods.”
Jiang’s findings highlight how this innovation could make significant strides in sustainable building practices. Given the vast carbon footprint of traditional construction materials, the research underscores how graphene-enhanced 3D-printed concrete could meet industry demands while lessening environmental impacts.
The partnership with VTRC allowed the UVA team to explore the material’s potential in transportation infrastructure, offering insight into real-world applications. This collaboration was essential for testing the material under conditions reflective of industry needs. Professor Ozbulut notes, “The VTRC collaboration was essential in uncovering the fundamental properties of this new concrete.”