Mastering the Art of Color Transitions in 3D Concrete Printing

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Introducing Color Control in Robotic Concrete Printing

Vertico’s latest experiments dive into color manipulation through robotic printing — transforming concrete from a structural medium into an expressive design tool. With our advanced color injection system, we're achieving gradient effects directly during the 3D printing process, layer by layer.

3D Printed Striped Column-with Gradients

Gradient Columns as a New Design Frontier

These prototype columns showcase vibrant transitions and dynamic striping created by controlling pigment injection in real time. Each column becomes a one-off sculptural form — highlighting how color gradients in concrete can be integrated into façades, installations, or public art.

Color Concrete Column

Precision Pigment Injection with Parametric Geometry

The printhead’s speed is adjusted for each stripe, fine-tuning both material deposition and color transitions. These fine-grain controls offer designers a new toolkit when working with parametric architecture and robotic fabrication.

Printing Concrete as a Medium for Artistic Expression

We see this as more than just a technical upgrade — it’s a leap in how concrete can be used for storytelling and visual identity in urban and cultural spaces.

Why Color Integration Matters in Architecture

Color-rich structures open doors for wayfinding, visual engagement, and site-specific identity. Imagine printed benches with built-in visual gradients, or public art where hue transitions mirror natural surroundings.

👉 Explore our Signature Bench project to see design-led 3D printing in action.
👉 Read how 3D printed urban furniture is changing public spaces through customization and sustainability.

3D Concrete Printing

Technical Insights from Vertico’s Color Station

Controlling Flow Rates for Layered Pigment Gradients

We experimented with different injection speeds to test how the pigment disperses through the printed layers. Each stripe's definition is a result of careful tuning between robot speed, nozzle pressure, and material viscosity.

Customization through Print Speed and Material Timing

Using Vertico’s modular 3D concrete printing system, we can adapt these processes to future installations where color isn’t painted on — it’s printed in.

👉 Get to know our complete printer system here.

FAQ About the Printheads

Do I need an HMI for printing with Accelerated printhead?

Yes, an HMI (Human-Machine Interface) guides you through the entire 3D printing process with 2-component materials—from preparation to printing and cleaning. It provides real-time data from the printhead’s sensors, giving you full control over the printing process by monitoring key parameters such as accelerant pressure, material flow, etc.

Where can I get materials for 1K printing?

We are open to working with various suppliers, and our experience with multiple market-available materials allows us to offer feedback and local reseller recommendations.

What is the biggest advantage of the Accelerator Printhead compared to a standard one?

The Accelerator Printhead unlocks unparalleled design freedom, allowing for large overhangs, intricate patterns, and complex geometries—perfect for architecture and custom design. It also enables rapid curing, reducing production time while maintaining high precision and structural integrity.

What materials can be used with the Accelerator Printhead?

We have developed a high-resolution, stable material specifically optimized for the Accelerator Printhead. When you purchase a machine, we provide our material recipe free of charge for your local production. Additionally, you can use any suitable material available on the market, offering flexibility for different projects and requirements.

What software does Vertico provide, and is it included with the machine?

Vertico offers an advanced in-house slicer software, designed to handle even the most complex 3D concrete printing projects. Our software comes license-free with every machine purchase, along with full training to ensure you can maximize its potential.

Dive Into the New Era of Design with Vertico

Discover Vertico's state-of-the-art concrete 3D printing solutions that turn visionary ideas into reality.