A Concrete 3D Printed Architectural Marvel

In 2018, a groundbreaking project undertaken by the Huizenprinters consortium, including key participant Vertico, set a new benchmark in the field of concrete additive manufacturing. This ambitious endeavor aimed to 3D print an architectural pavilion, a venture that not only tested the limits of current technology but also pushed the boundaries of what could be achieved in modern construction techniques. With only a foundational understanding of robotics and the complexities involved in creating suitable concrete mixtures, the challenges were immense. Despite these hurdles, the team's perseverance led to the successful creation of a fully 3D printed concrete shell structure. Remarkably, this structure was completed without the traditional supports of rebar or custom formwork, showcasing the potential for future constructions to adopt more sustainable and innovative building practices. This achievement stands as a testament to the collaborative spirit and technical ingenuity of the consortium, highlighting a significant leap forward in the integration of 3D printing technology into mainstream architectural applications.

What followed were several years of developing the technology and updating the design and fabrication strategies. Many iterations of machines and software resulted in the development of a process for strongly accelerating the hardening of concrete. By adding an accelerant at the printhead, the concrete mixture sets in a matter of minutes, allowing for the production of highly complex designs.

Printing the roof proved to be the biggest challenge. The breakthrough came with the segmentation of the entire structure in 8 parts.