Advanced mechanical models and computational methods for large-scale 3D printing of innovative concrete structures

Gabriele Milani (Principal Investigator)

COM^3D-CREATE aims to bridge computational mechanics with large-scale additive manufacturing in innovative concrete structure design for building engineering. It seeks to develop tailored computational methods to enhance design and analysis of structures like new-concept walls and shells using large-scale 3D concrete printing, including recycled materials. 3D printing in construction lowers costs, promotes zero-waste, and reduces material consumption, necessitating computational tools for exploring complex shapes. The project’s objectives include: Developing constitutive and failure models for 3D printed concrete through advanced homogenization and multiscale approaches; Devising topology optimization techniques with optimized mechanical performance, accounting for material nonlinearity and anisotropy, stress-constraints, and multi-physics considerations, including thermal optimization; Proposing nonlinear finite element analysis and limit analysis procedures to assess the mechanical response; Creating an integrated computational platform for simulating the mechanical behavior throughout the design and production stages.

Contribution to SDGs: 9, 11