i3Dc – Session S9

From Matter to Shape: 3D Printing Precast Industry

Dr. Didier Lootens
Department Director of Material Physics, Sika Technology

Abstract: Additive manufacturing or 3D printing, already implemented in all industries is now also more and more used in the construction either on the field or in precast. Chemistry, process but also civil engineering, architecture have to be combined to able a successful and rapid implementation of environmental 3D construction printing. The initial challenges to print high quality and continuously at construction scales have been reached given us now the opportunity to spread the new technology for more efficient construction processes. The construction industry is changing rapidly with the increasing use of precast elements which allow safer, quicker and cheaper high-quality constructions. With the integration of 3D printing into the modular building process, we can further decrease the total cost with less  material that can do more. The environmental considerations involve the need to reduce the quantity of construction materials but also to increase their durability. This presentation demonstrates the use of 3D printing technology for new building principles.

Short Bio: Dr. Didier Lootens is a Physico-Chemist, department director of Material Physics in Sika Technology since 2004. MSc in Physico- Chemistry from the ESPCI and PhD graduated from the University of Pierre et Marie Curie in Material Science. With 20 years of experience in the field of cementitious materials and 3D printing, he has worked in more than 20 countries. Research interests include concentrated suspensions, inorganic chemistry, characterization of building materials by rheology and ultrasound, reduction of the carbon footprint with the use of new binders, innovative mortar formulations and he leading the development of new 3D printed technologies, including processes, formulations and domestication of printed materials. He developed the entire 3D printing business at Sika. 60 publications and over 30 patents.