Experimental Study of 3D Printing Cob-Based and Hemp-Based Material Mixtures for Home Building

This paper presents an experimental study on extrudable cob-based and hemp-based materials, aiming to investigate their feasibility for 3D printing and their performance as sustainable construction materials. Cobcrete, a mixture of clay, sand, lime, straw, and water, and hempcrete, a composite material made from hemp hurd fiber and lime-based binders, have gained attention for their potential as a new construction material and possibly in 3D printing applications. The study focuses on assessing the workability, mechanical properties, and environmental sustainability aspects of these materials. A series of laboratory experiments are conducted to evaluate the printability, compressive strength, flexural strength, and water absorption characteristics of the extruded cobcrete and hempcrete specimens. Additionally, the impact of different mix ratios and curing conditions on the material performance is examined. The findings reveal that both cobcrete and hempcrete exhibit favorable printability potential and demonstrate promising mechanical properties suitable for construction applications. Moreover, these materials showcase sustainability advantages, including low embodied energy and potential carbon sequestration for hempcrete. The study contributes to the understanding of the feasibility and performance of 3D printable cobcrete and hempcrete, providing insights into their potential as eco-friendly alternatives in the construction industry. The results underscore the need for further research and development to optimize these materials for broader adoption and to address challenges such as standardization, regulatory compliance, and market acceptance. Ultimately, this study paves the way for utilizing 3D printable cobcrete and hempcrete in sustainable construction practices, contributing to the development of greener and more environmentally conscious building technologies.