3D-PRINTED SPIRAL POLYMER FORMWORK FOR MORE EFFICIENT DEMOULDING FROM CONCRETE

Abstract

This study will look to evaluate the effectiveness of a 3D-printed spiral shaped formwork in concrete demoulding via pull-out tests. Three other key variables namely, materials (PLA or TPU), gap length between layers of spiral design (0.2mm or 0.6mm) and the presence of release agent on the outer surface of the spiral [Vaseline or Control (no Vaseline)], will also be studied. The main aim is to conduct pull-out tests on spiral shaped polymer bars of different materials and gap length between layers, with and without a release agent, to determine the maximum load, maximum stress and maximum tensile stress required for a successful demoulding or until the polymer bar fractures. The results reveal that a TPU 95A printed spiral shaped formwork with a smaller gap length of 0.2mm between spiral layers is highly effective in demoulding concrete. The presence of Vaseline as release agent further improves the results.