Stony Brook University is leading an initiative to develop sustainable shelters for Ukrainian refugees using innovative 3D printing techniques. The project aims to utilize recycled concrete and other waste materials, offering a potential breakthrough in the construction industry.
"This project has the potential to develop exciting breakthroughs on how to turn construction waste into a sustainable solution for the $2 trillion per year US construction industry," stated Professor Alexander Orlov from the Department of Materials Science and Chemical Engineering at Stony Brook University. "It can also save countless lives of Ukrainian refugees who can benefit from rapid printing of shelters to house displaced families."
The research is co-funded by several organizations, including the Office of Naval Research, United States National Science Foundation, and Polish National Science Centre. It involves collaboration between multiple universities such as Kyiv National University of Construction and Architecture in Ukraine and Bydgoszcz University of Science and Technology in Poland.
Stony Brook University's contribution includes assessing building samples and developing flexible 3D printing solutions that can be deployed in Ukraine. The aim is not only to provide shelter but also to reduce cement consumption. Cement production contributes significantly to carbon dioxide emissions globally; thus, using recycled concrete could lower costs and environmental impact.
Assistant Professor Marija Krstic highlighted the project's focus on sustainability: "This research will address challenges in building resilient and sustainable infrastructure by using novel, inexpensive, and energy efficient solutions." She is working on analyzing challenges related to incorporating waste into concrete 3D printing.
The new 3D printing approach offers advantages over traditional construction methods by reducing manual labor, thereby speeding up the building process.
— Angelina Livigni