Finite element analysis on the anisotropic behavior of 3D printed concrete under compression and flexure

This study aims to explore effects of interfacial bond properties on the anisotropic mechanical behavior of 3D printed concrete. One finite element (FE) model which fully considered the interfacial bond properties with the traction-separation law was established and verified by the experimental results. The influence of nozzle dimensions, interfacial bond strength and concrete properties on the compressive and flexural strengths was analyzed. The results show that the horizontal shear deformation between printed filaments leads to the strength reduction for the 3D printed specimen under compression, and the tensile strength at the mid-span determines the flexural strength of 3D printed specimen. The compressive strength is relatively lower while the flexural strength is much higher for the specimens loaded in Y and Z directions. The simulation shows that the number of interfaces, the tensile and shear properties of the interface between printed filaments contribute the variation of anisotropy under compression and flexure.

Automated summary

This study explores the effects of interfacial bond properties on the anisotropic mechanical behavior of 3D printed concrete. The findings show that horizontal shear deformation leads to strength reduction under compression, while tensile strength determines flexural strength. Additionally, compressive strength is relatively lower but flexural strength is higher in specimens loaded in Y and Z directions.