LEARNING FROM HISTORICAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTION IN SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA TO ADAPT FOR GREEN 3D PRINTING OF HOUSES

Abstract

3D printing technology is currently one of the fast-emerging technologies in the infrastructure construction field. Ancient Sub-Saharan African building construction made extensive use of a wide range of earthen materials and vernacular structures. The main goal of the research discussed in this paper is to learn from historical building construction in Africa and adapt the methodology, material use, and geometry or form to 3D print sustainable and green residential houses in tropical and arid regions. The study addresses the current 3D printing technology for construction of houses using Sub-Saharan African historical sustainable and green materials such as cob, bamboo, and hemp-material based structures. Earthen materials are cost-effective, naturally insulated, and environmentally friendly, which makes them stand out from other sustainable construction materials. Two main geometry models are designed in this study for a 3D printing construction method based on the Sub-Saharan African historical housing forms. Moreover, the study contributes to achieving a green building that satisfies the UN sustainable development goals.