2024-02-01 19:58:09
In an initial proof of concept, voxeljet and the Austrian Parastruct have successfully tested the 3D printing of recyclable residual materials from the construction sector. Concrete molds were printed on a VX200 from Voxeljet (binder jetting technology) with Ecomould, a material composed of biogenic production residues from the construction industry and a mineral binder. The CO2 footprint of such a mold is negative.
The next step that the two companies will take is to print molds that are suitable, for example, for cold casting concrete and ceramics for interior objects or for laminating processes.
Minimize disposal costs
The Austrian startup Parastruct from Innsbruck is developing a processing and binding agent technology for a fully recyclable system for the construction industry. This can reduce the consumption of primary raw materials by up to 90% and minimize disposal costs in the construction industry, with the exception of formwork. The next step is to further develop the technology with application partners in mold construction for cold casting and laminating applications. For concrete companies, this can be a sustainable solution for making recyclable moulds.
Growing interest in sustainable solutions
Forecasts estimate annual growth of the recycled surplus market at 7-9% by 2025. Increasing regulatory obligations and customer demands as part of corporate social responsibility (CSR) strategies are fueling interest in and demand for sustainable value solutions creation. Parastruct uses 3D printing to re-create value from unused mineral bulk materials such as production waste from construction and biogenic raw materials such as wood flour or sawdust.
Savings on disposal costs and lower purchasing costs of materials
Negative carbon footprint
For companies, this results in potential savings through the elimination of disposal costs. These can amount to 75-100 euros/ton for construction waste and up to 70-180 euros/ton for wood waste. Companies also reduce their purchasing costs for materials. At the same time, they can more easily implement new regulations, including those from the European Green Deal. With -108.3 kg CO² per 1m² mold surface, Ecomould has a much lower CO² footprint than conventionally produced sand phenolic resin molds. After use, the mold can be recycled into new material for printing. The protective layer that is applied can be removed beforehand.
Open 3D printer
Of voxeljet VX200 is suitable for Ecomould because the German manufacturer builds open 3D printing systems. The parameters used for printing can be adjusted to the material. The size of a maximum of 4 by 2 by 1 meter also meets the demand from the concrete industry.
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