Improving the 3D printability of high volume fly ash mixtures via the use of nano attapulgite clay

Panda, B., Ruan, S., Unluer, C. and Tan, M. J. (2019) Improving the 3D printability of high volume fly ash mixtures via the use of nano attapulgite clay. Composites Part B: Engineering, 165, pp. 75-83. (doi: 10.1016/j.compositesb.2018.11.109)

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Abstract

The effect of nano-attapulgite clay (NC) addition on the fresh, hardened and microstructural properties of high volume fly ash (HVFA) mixes designed for 3D printing was investigated in this study. Experimental results showed that the addition of 0.1–0.5% (i.e. by mass of binder) NC increased the static yield stress of HVFA mortars without significantly affecting the apparent viscosity, due to particle re-flocculation and enhanced thixotropy. When compared to the control mix, the use of 0.5% NC also led to increased viscosity recovery and improved structural build-up at different resting times and shear rates. These advancements were useful for 3D concrete printing, during which the material should be extrudable and buildable layer-by-layer without any deformation. Successful implementation of mixes containing NC was demonstrated via the printing of a 20-layer structure. Further optimization of the NC content and associated HVFA mix design is recommended, depending on the geometrical and mechanical properties required.

Item Type:Articles
Additional Information:The authors would like to acknowledge Sembcorp Architects & Engineers Pte Ltd and National Research Foundation of Singapore for their funding and support of the work performed by Biranchi Panda and Ming Jen Tan. Shaoqin Ruan and Cise Unluer were supported by the Singapore MOE Academic Research Fund Tier 1 (RG 95/16).
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Unluer, Dr Cise
Authors: Panda, B., Ruan, S., Unluer, C., and Tan, M. J.
College/School:College of Science and Engineering > School of Engineering > Infrastructure and Environment
Journal Name:Composites Part B: Engineering
Publisher:Elsevier Ltd.
ISSN:1359-8368
ISSN (Online):1879-1069
Published Online:28 November 2018

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