3D printing with concrete offers new possibilities for the construction of free-form structures, but reinforcement remains a challenge. Conventional methods using steel rods and reinforcement cages are often complex, time-consuming processes. Developer Kai Parthy, known for innovative materials in 3D printing, is now presenting a new solution: flexible reinforcement bars made from round steel chains with “instant cages”.
The idea is based on a deformable steel chain that is stiffened by inserting small bolts and “caging elements”. The chain remains flexible enough to adapt directly to curved surfaces. This eliminates the need for the usual “weaving” of reinforcing bars, which significantly speeds up and simplifies the construction process.
The “Instant Cages” provide additional reinforcement for the concrete by converting tensile forces into compressive forces and preventing cracks.
The rods can be used for free-form structures as well as for classic constructions. They are suitable for columns, walls and suspended ceilings and can be bent three-dimensionally by hand or with a hammer. Thanks to a modular system with various extension elements, the reinforcement can be flexibly adapted to different construction projects.
In addition to its use in 3D concrete printing, the system is also suitable for conventional reinforced concrete structures. The easy handling and quick adaptation to the desired shape could make construction with concrete more efficient in the future.
flexible rebar with plug-in cage-extensions (2025): https://drive.google.com/file/d/1g6I3GTURoj4Gx4VduErM-jFwC2y-iE9v/view?usp=drive_link
bionic cluster steel elements (2023): https://drive.google.com/file/d/1wD4BOqlp5fHP_CBHk1Sdi2AfohziNMgQ/view?usp=drive_link
Contact: kai.parthy@gmail.com
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