A team of Chinese researchers has investigated the earthquake safety of 3D-printed buildings. The focus was on a concrete model that was subjected to realistic earthquake conditions in a shaking table simulation. The tests are intended to show whether 3D printing is suitable as a construction method for earthquake-proof houses.
The study was carried out by Associate Professor Sun Xiaoyan from Zhejiang University in collaboration with Hangzhou Lingtong Technology. The shaking table test enabled realistic simulations with horizontal, vertical and rotating movements. In order to determine the maximum load-bearing capacity, the model was gradually subjected to stronger earthquakes.
The building withstood an intensity 6 earthquake without damage. Cracks appeared at levels 7 and 8, but these did not affect the structural stability. Only during a level 9 earthquake did large cracks occur, but the supporting structure remained intact. These results show that 3D-printed houses are highly resistant.
Earthquake safety is crucial, as most casualties in strong quakes are caused by collapsing buildings. In China, there are therefore three principles for earthquake-resistant construction: no damage during minor earthquakes, repairable damage during moderate earthquakes and stability without collapse during strong tremors. The tested structure met these requirements.
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