New solution for 3D printing

A new 3D printing solution from Cemex and Cobod uses conventional ready-mix concrete in the building process that is said to reduce the time needed for the process and allows for significant savings to be made.

The new 3D printing solution was used for the first time in Angola

Utilising an innovative admixture, Cemex and Cobod have developed a solution for 3D printing that enables the usage of conventional concrete - allowing the consumption of local and readily available materials.

“The introduction of this revolutionary 3D printing system is a testament to our customer-centric mindset and relentless focus on continuous innovation and improvement,” said Juan Romero, executive vice president of sustainability, commercial, and operations development, Cemex.

“Working together with Cobod, we have developed an experience for customers that is superior to anything that has been provided in the past.” 

Current 3D printing methods rely on highly specialised and expensive mortars. Cemex introduced a proprietary admixtures family called D.fab, which transforms conventional concrete into a versatile material and can be efficiently tailored for 3D printing construction. This admixtures innovation is reported to produce a more fluid and malleable concrete that facilitates the pouring process for 3D printing applications.

Cobod applied the new solution for the first time in a suburb of Luanda, the capital of Angola, where homebuilder Power2Build used it to construct Angola’s first 3D printed house.