Reducing material and energy consumption in single-story buildings through 3D-printed wall designs

Abstract

This study reveals significant material savings and enhanced energy efficiency in 3D-printed walls for single-story buildings. As the construction industry increasingly turns to 3D printing for its potential to reduce material use and improve sustainability, understanding the energy performance of these structures is crucial. This research investigates the thermal behavior of various double-skin wall configurations, including air cavities, concrete infill, and composite layers, and compares them to conventional masonry walls. The study’s findings are significant, revealing that double-skin wall designs with strategically incorporated air cavities can enhance thermal insulation more effectively than the use of lightweight, low-conductivity printing mortars alone. Specifically, the innovative wall configuration demonstrated up to a 12% reduction in heating energy consumption compared to traditional masonry walls. Using double-skin walls in 3D printing also reduced material consumption by 55% compared to infilled concrete walls. Additionally, this research demonstrated that 3D-printed buildings are more effective at reducing heating energy consumption than cooling energy consumption. By emphasizing the critical role of wall geometry in reducing material and energy consumption, this study offers valuable insights for architects, engineers, and builders seeking to leverage 3D printing technology for the next generation of sustainable and energy-efficient buildings.