This technology prints high-density fibrous earth materials to form strong, low-carbon walls, aiming to reduce building costs and construction time by up to 60 percent versus conventional methods. It has potential to address Australia's predicted shortfall of over 600,000 affordable homes by 2036, especially in remote and disadvantaged communities.
The process uses locally sourced earth and agricultural by-products like hemp and rice husks to strengthen the material and promote circular economy principles by repurposing waste. Unlike concrete, which contributes significantly to global carbon emissions, this earth-based technique offers a near-zero carbon footprint alternative.
The research collaboration includes Swinburne's School of Engineering, industry partner Luyten 3D, UNSW, and Indigenous knowledge holders. The team has completed small prototype prints and plans a larger demonstration build in Victoria to validate the technology's practical application.
Dr Gomaa stated, "Earth is one of the oldest and most sustainable building materials we have. It's abundant, recyclable and has almost no carbon footprint. By combining it with plant-based fibres and advanced robotics, we're reimagining indigenous building knowledge for a modern, digital era."
Related Links
Swinburne University of Technology
Space Technology News - Applications and Research
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