Characterization of 3D printed concrete beams after exposure to high temperature

3D printing of concrete (3DPC) shows wide applicability and brings significant benefits to the construction sector, such as fast and cost-efficient production and geometrical freedom of structural elements, limited need in heavy equipment and program-controlled erection process. Naturally, when it comes to safety and structural stability, fire resistance is of paramount importance. The post-fire behaviour of 3D printed concrete is a new and nearly unexplored field of knowledge. Thereby, the thermal response of small-scale 3DPC beams to high temperature was investigated and their post-heating behaviour characterized. The beams were subjected to several ranges of elevated temperatures and then tested to measure their flexural and compressive strengths. The influence of various parameters, such as the presence of geometrical irregularities or higher porosity due to 3D printing and cooling ways was also studied and described in this paper.