Locally differentiated concrete by digitally controlled injection

Abstract

This paper presents a digital fabrication process for concrete which may be deployed for surface texturing, volumetric modification of material properties and 2D and 3D forming. We process concrete in its slurry state by locally injecting chemicals in solution which cause vigorous effervescent reaction to take place. By precise and controlled dispensing, using computer software and robotic hardware developed, we produce local differentiation in the finally set concrete artefacts. Our work contributes to additive and subtractive 3D manufacturing as well as functionally graded materials fabrication.