Studying Steel Fiber Reinforcement for 3D Printed Elements and Structures

In this study, the effect of steel fiber and limestone powder on the fresh and hardened properties of 3D printable concrete was investigated. Mixtures were prepared using steel fibers (0.2 mm in diameter and 13 mm long) at three different fiber dosages (i.e., 0%, 1%, and 2% by volume). Fresh properties including extrudability and shape stability were evaluated. On the other hand, hardened properties assessed were the compressive strength (of mold-cast specimens) and flexural strength (of 3D printed specimens) after 7 days of curing. Experimental results revealed that the addition of steel fiber or limestone powder reduced the shape stability of printing mixtures, resulting in larger layer deformations. However, both compressive and flexural strength was significantly improved due to the addition of steel fiber, and the positive impact was more prominent at higher steel fiber dosages.

Automated summary

In this study, the impact of steel fiber and limestone powder on the properties of 3D printable concrete was investigated. The addition of steel fiber significantly improved both compressive and flexural strength, while reducing shape stability.