An interdisciplinary research team from the University of Bristol has exposed an almost full-scale 3D-printed concrete element to real earthquake conditions for the first time. The aim of the experiment was to investigate the structural load-bearing capacity of additively manufactured building elements under seismic stress – a field that has been insufficiently researched to date. The test took place on the UK’s largest vibration platform, which can simulate ground movements with a payload of up to 50 tons.
Compared to conventional concrete structures, 3D printing in construction brings with it new material properties and unconventional geometries. These factors influence the load-bearing behavior, especially with dynamic loads.
“This experiment aims to fill the knowledge gap surrounding the dynamic response of 3D-printed units, particularly how they perform under recorded and simulated seismic events,” said project leads Professor Anastasios Sextos and Dr Raffaele De Risi. “By doing so, the team aim to identify strengths, weaknesses and failure mechanisms specific to this construction method.”
“Insights from this study will help identify design parameters that optimise seismic performance, such as layer bonding strategies and reinforcement integration,” said Dr De Risi.
The test setup aimed to close this gap and identify potential vulnerabilities and failure mechanisms.
“Ultimately, we hope to validate whether 3D-printed concrete can meet current safety standards for seismic applications and provide a foundation for developing building codes that include additive manufacturing technologies.
“These findings will be essential for engineers, architects and policymakers exploring the future of earthquake-resistant constructions.”
The tested component was manufactured using robotic additive manufacturing, which enabled precise control over the layer structure and geometry. Equipped with acceleration sensors and displacement transducers, the component was analyzed under varying ground movements – from light vibrations to intense seismic scenarios. Cracks, deformations and material failures were documented.
“By testing the seismic resilience of 3D-printed concrete for the first time, we’re not just exploring the future of construction – we’re helping shape a safer, smarter and more adaptive built environment,” said Dr De Risi.
The data obtained will be used to validate numerical models and compare them with traditional construction methods.
In the long term, the results will be incorporated into standardization processes and serve as the basis for new guidelines on the use of additive construction methods in earthquake-resistant building construction.
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