3D Printing Architectural Applications of cement-lime mortars with microencapsulated Phase Change Materials (PCM)

3D printing technology arouses great interest for its application in architecture on facades and building enclosures that still need to be explored. An experimental study of 3D printing laboratory prototypes using low-carbon cement-lime mortars with microencapsulated Phase Change Material (PCM) was carried out to evaluate its application for adaptative building enclosures. Rheology, extrudability and buildability of PCM cement-lime mortars were assessed. Cellulose fibers and rheology modifiers, as sepiolite nano-clay, were used to enhance mortar properties. Rheological parameters were measured using a Dynamic Shear Rheometer (DSR) and Cone Penetration Test (CPT) in fresh state. Fresh compressive strength evolution was assessed by fresh compressive strength test (Squeeze Test) and Early Age monitoring was carried out to keep track of cement hydration and structural build up progress. Extrudability and buildability of mixtures were evaluated by means of RAM Extrusion Test and laboratory 3D printing prototype. This approach provided new knowledge on the design of high thermal performance mortars using digital fabrication in architectural applications, contributing to the digitalization and sustainability of construction and building practice.