Indian Institute of Technology, Gandhinagar (IITGN) organized a workshop on 3D concrete printing in collaboration with Central Public Works Department (CPWD) recently. The discussions covered the past, present and future of 3D concrete printing technology highlighting the experiences of the Indian Army, systematic and automated integration of fiber mesh with the printed layers, seismic isolation technology for earthquake protection of structures, and industrial applications of 3D concrete printing technology.
Besides, the delegates visited the site of a 3D printed concrete building, an industrial facility for 3D concrete printing, and the IIT Gandhinagar’s laboratory for 3D concrete printing. The IITGN team of students and faculty members have played a significant role in the development, testing and construction of a range of 3D printed defence and residential concrete structures for the Indian Army. This workshop was intended to discuss incorporation of emerging indigenous technologies into building construction practices.
The Deputy Director General of the CPWD Mr. Sanjeev Rastogi said: “There are numerous challenges in the implementation of the projects because of the lack of skilled manpower. New technologies give us hope to mitigate such challenges. However, the technologies need to advance to the extent that end-to-end solutions are possible. This will enhance the acceptability of the new solutions.”
The Dean of Research and Development Professor Amit Prashant said: “This workshop is part of an MOU between CPWD and IIT Gandhinagar. The key goal is to work together so that we all learn challenges of each other better, and solutions are accordingly tailored during the process of development. I am hopeful that the two organizations will work together and create examples for others to follow.”