Improvement of Rheological Properties and Printability of Sodium-Carbonate Activated Slag-Based Systems

This study investigates the rheological properties and 3D printability of one-part sodium carbonate-activated slag-based mixes for potential use in 3D printing applications. Using sodium carbonate as an activator and substituting reactive MgO with slag, various paste mixtures were formulated. Results indicate that increasing r-MgO substitution raises yield stress while reducing plastic viscosity. Printability and buildability improved with r-MgO substitution instead of slag. A reference mix produced with only slag fails in buildability, but a 10% r-MgO substitution enables the production of ten-layered cylinders. The optimal ratio for improved rheological properties and 3D printability is identified as 10% r-MgO by weight, highlighting the potential enhancement of printability and buildability in these mixes for layer-by-layer 3D printing construction.