Chinese researchers delve into 3D-printed earthquake-resistant buildings
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The sturdiness is primarily determined by how well they can resist earthquakes. Sun had collaborated with Hangzhou Lingtong Technology Co., Ltd., an enterprise specializing in digital construction and 3D printing design based in Hangzhou, east China's Zhejiang province, to precisely calculate the structure's earthquake-proof performance using a 3D digital model.
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After a full day of testing, the 3D-printed house model withstood an earthquake with a 6 degree of intensity without any structural damage. When the simulated seismic intensity reached 7 and 8, cracks appeared but did not extend to the structural framework, maintaining overall stability. Even after an earthquake at a 9 degree of intensity that caused complete cracking, the core structure remained intact without collapse or severe damage. The model successfully passed the test.
Sun explained that 3D-printed concrete buildings boast many advantages. First, they allow for rapid and precise construction through digital design, additive manufacturing, and prefabrication, and can accommodate a range of architectural forms. Second, their hollow-wall design can incorporate reinforced steel frameworks, creating a robust concrete structure with excellent anti-seismic performance and long-term durability.
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However, as a novel construction method, 3D-printed concrete houses still require further professional certification and practical testing. The outstanding earthquake resilience of this scaled-down house model has brought confidence in future research and wider technological adoption.
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