3DCP Modular Building Blocks System

The 3DCP Modular Building Blocks System was developed within the scope of the INOV.AM (Innovation in Additive Manufacturing) project, namely under WP19 – Rein4Concrete. Following an extensive review of the state of the art in 3D Concrete Printing (3DCP), a research gap was identified concerning disassemblable modular systems and the integration of thermal breaks within printed concrete components. In response, the project proposes a construction system combining these two aspects within a unified design and fabrication strategy.

The system is composed of parametrically defined 3DCP building blocks incorporating steel lattice reinforcement placed during the printing process to support a thermally disconnected structural configuration. Continuous and modular vertical voids are integrated within the blocks to enable post-tensioning after assembly, providing structural stability while preserving the potential for future disassembly, adaptability, and reuse.

The thermal disconnection between the interior and exterior faces of the components was achieved through the integration of a digitally controlled pinch valve within the extrusion nozzle. Experimental tests were carried out to evaluate the relationship between actuation timing and effective material deposition, allowing calibration and integration of these parameters into the computational workflow.

A full-scale prototype structure was subsequently designed, fabricated and assembled at the ARENA – Advanced Design & Technology Laboratory of the University of Minho. The outcomes of the project are scheduled for presentation and publication at the fib 2026 and Digital Concrete 2026 conferences.

RESEARCH TEAM

Rodrigo Chiese (Research Fellow), Paulo J.S.Cruz (Coordination), Bruno Figueiredo (Coordination), Filipe Brandão (Researcher), João Ribeiro (Research Technician).