New Delhi, Apr 24 – Researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Guwahati, have conducted an innovative study examining the impact of lattice-patterned 3D-printed concrete walls on the thermal performance of buildings. Led by Biranchi Panda, an Assistant Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering, the research aims to determine how these specially designed walls can enhance internal temperature regulation and improve energy efficiency in construction.

The findings of this significant research have been published in the international journal ‘Progress in Additive Manufacturing’. Lattice walls are characterized by a repeating pattern of openings or voids, distinguishing them from traditional solid walls. This design can be achieved through advanced 3D concrete printing technology, which allows for complex and intricate structures that are challenging to create using conventional construction methods.

One of the primary benefits of lattice walls is their ability to regulate temperature effectively. The openings facilitate improved airflow and reduce heat transfer, making these walls particularly advantageous for energy-efficient building designs. Moreover, they utilize less material, minimize construction waste, and provide both functional and aesthetic enhancements.

Panda emphasized that 3D Concrete Printing (3DCP) is an emerging technology in the construction sector, utilizing automated machines to construct buildings layer-by-layer from digital designs. He noted that extrusion-based printing is among the most widely adopted techniques in 3DCP. This method involves pushing a concrete mixture through a nozzle, allowing for the deposition of successive layers to create walls and structural elements.

Compared to traditional concrete construction methods, 3DCP offers numerous advantages. It eliminates the need for temporary molds, which are typically used to shape poured concrete, resulting in a significant reduction of construction waste by up to 60%. Additionally, it decreases construction time by 70% and lowers labor costs by 80%. The flexibility in wall design afforded by 3DCP is another notable benefit.

Panda explained that, unlike conventional concrete walls, which are generally flat and solid, 3D-printed walls can incorporate complex geometries, including lattice structures with controlled voids. Recent studies have begun to explore how these new wall designs influence the thermal behavior of buildings, as wall geometry plays a crucial role in heat transfer and the energy needed for heating or cooling indoor spaces.

However, there has been limited research specifically addressing the thermal performance of 3D-printed concrete lattice walls in the Indian context. To fill this gap, the IIT Guwahati team conducted a thorough experimental and numerical analysis of various 3D-printed concrete lattice wall designs, focusing on how the size, shape, and arrangement of voids affect heat flow and temperature regulation.

The study involved laboratory testing to measure thermal properties, alongside computer-based simulations to predict the thermal performance of different wall configurations. The research yields valuable insights into the thermal behavior of 3D-printed concrete lattice walls and underscores their potential for designing energy-efficient buildings. It also contributes to ongoing efforts to enhance sustainable construction practices through advanced digital manufacturing technologies.

The findings are anticipated to aid in the future development of building designs that are better suited to diverse climatic conditions, while encouraging the broader adoption of 3D printing technologies within the construction industry. Panda noted that the study demonstrates how 3D-printed concrete lattice walls can improve natural temperature regulation, paving the way for more energy-efficient, cost-effective, and sustainable buildings. With reduced construction waste, quicker build times, and design flexibility, this technology shows promise for affordable housing and climate-smart urban development across India.

The research team is now focused on developing multifunctional resilient concrete structures that consider various climate zones in India, further advancing the field of sustainable construction.