3D Printing of a Multi-Performative Building Envelope (2024-11)¶

This study investigated the 3D printing feasibility of mono-material facade panels with Pr recycled thermoplastic. The design had integrated performance parameters, namely air l P permeability, water tightness, resistance to wind loads, and impact resistance, and al P fabrication parameters in a computational iterative process to inform the geometry al topology. The fabrication parameters were integrated and evaluated for geometry na accuracy, print path accuracy of 5 mm length, overhang higher than 45°, inner layer rna adhesion, and adhesion to the print bed. Two panels, measuring 1.6-meter length and 2- urn meter height, and six connections were fabricated and evaluated in a standardized our facade testing rig. The air permeability displayed a larger than 1.5 m3/m2·h permissible Jou Class 1 value due to air gaps in the manufactured panels. The same gaps that occurred Jo during the fabrication process permitted water flow in both panels after 7 minutes of J testing. The panels passed standardized serviceability and safety standards for wind J load resistance and achieved a maximum E5 class for impact resistance. The structural strength values were 1500 Pa for serviceability, 2250 Pa for safety load, and 3262 Pa for breaking load. These findings demonstrated that 3D-printed geometries have a high potential to facilitate sustainable design strategies by integrating multiple performances within a mono-material building envelope.