Thickness optimization of 3D-printed structures considering structural failure

3D concrete printing (3DCP) is a process that materializes slender plates and shells, where one dimension of the object is much smaller than the two others. In this study, the term thickness has the same meaning as in structural mechanics. It is well-known that thickness of 3D printed plates may vary depending on process parameters. This study aims at identifying potential material savings through thickness variation of 3D printed structures. The proposed methodology relies on the printability assessment of 3D printed components, by considering elastic buckling and plastic failure. First, an analytical solution for plastic failure of a heavy wall with material with negligible structuration rate is proposed. Second, a numerical study with a material with a high structuration rate, typical of 2K strategy.