Comparative Carbon Impact Analysis for Advanced Manufacturing of Concrete Structures

 The construction of architecture significantly contributes to the increase in global carbon footprint. Current research in decarbonization focuses on reducing embodied energy by utilizing low-carbon and high-performance cementitious materials to decrease carbon emissions in the construction sector. Advances in 3D printing and additive manufacturing play a significant role in this process. This thesis explores an evaluation framework for the carbon impact of concrete systems relative to their compression strength with a specific focus on binder-jetting frameworks. It builds upon the ongoing research framework developed by my academic advisors, focused on material upcycling with additive manufacturing. This method allows for the inclusion of coarse material feedstocks coupled with additive manufacturing processes. This thesis demonstrates the relationship between decreasing carbon footprint emissions and maintaining the structural strength of the structures through topology optimization. The methodology is based on physical measurements of material properties of the binderjetted combined with structural topological simulation. The goal is to better understand carbon footprint reduction while considering the physical properties of the structures.