Title:
Sustainability and Constructability Aspects of Track Slabs Using Fiber-Reinforced Concrete
Author(s):
Barzin Mobasher
Publication:
Web Session
Volume:
Issue:
Appears on pages(s):
Keywords:
DOI:
Date:
4/2/2023
Abstract:
Conventional approaches to concrete 3D printing relies on printing concrete in a straight (linear) print path, with layers overlaid on top of each other. This results in inter-layer and inter-filament joints being potential weak spots that compromise the mechanical performance. This paper evaluates simple alterations to the print geometry to mitigate some of these effects. A printable mixture with 30% of limestone powder replacing cement (by mass), with a 28-day compressive strength of about 70 MPa in the strongest direction, is used. S- and 3-shaped print paths are evaluated as alternatives to the linear print path. Staggering of the layers ensures that the inter-filament joints do not lie on the same plane along the depth. Flexural strength enhancement is observed when print geometries are changed and/or layers are staggered. Flexural and fracture properties indicate that smaller layer heights are beneficial for unreinforced and fiber-reinforced 3D printed mortars, even though this results in greater number of interfaces and longer printing times.