IceFormwork for Cast HPFRC Elements (2019)
article⁄IceFormwork for Cast HPFRC Elements (2019)
abstract⁄The following paper introduces a design implementation of an innovative fabrication method that aims at enabling an environmental and automated production of geometrically challenging cast concrete elements. The fabrication method is based on the use of ice as the molding material for cast concrete. Empirical testing of ice CNCprocessing, and a concrete mix capable of hardening at subzero temperatures was undertaken during previous research stages. The current paper illustrates a practical application of ice formwork. A facade rain screen has been developed using algorithmic modeling to illustrate a common case in which a nonrepetitive geometrical pattern requires individual formwork to be produced for each element. Existing industrial methods capable of delivering such a project for formidable costs are based on CNCprocessed expanded polystyrene EPS, woodbased materials, or industrial wax formwork. These materials have been found to be either difficult to recycle, expensive, insufficiently strong, energy or laborintensive to produce. Preliminary evaluation has shown that ice, used in their place, facilitates a much cleaner, economic, and an even more energyefficient process. Moreover, a very gentle demolding process through icethawing eliminates any shock stresses exposed on newly cast concrete and provides optimal curing conditions. As a result, the thickness of facade elements can be reduced while still fulfilling all structural requirements.
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| Year |
2019 |
| Authors |
Sitnikov, Vasily; Eigenraam, Peter; Papanastasis, Panagiotis; Wassermann-Fry, Stephan. |
| Issue |
ACADIA 19:UBIQUITY AND AUTONOMY |
| Pages |
616-627 |
| Library link |
N/A |
| Entry filename |
iceformwork-cast-hpfrc-elements |
