A Review of Optimization of Limestone and Calcined-Clay-Cement Concrete Mixtures for 3D Printing (2024-06)¶

This paper reviews the existing literature on the optimization of Limestone Calcined Clay Cement (LC3) for 3D concrete printing mixtures. The main aim of this paper is to review the impacts of replacing Portland cement with calcined clay and limestone on the properties of 3D concrete mixtures. The paper investigated the property requirements for fresh and hardened concrete for 3D printing, the existing 3D printing concrete mix designs, the effects of substituting calcined clay and limestone for Portland cement and optimization methods for 3D concrete mixtures. In contrast to traditional concrete, the study discovered that 3D printed concrete requires unique properties such as extrudability, flowability, buildability and rapid setting time. Furthermore, the addition of calcined clay and limestone to the concrete mixture enhances buildability, green strength and compressive strength while reducing extrudability and flowability. To optimize 3D concrete printing mixtures, techniques like particle size distribution optimization, the usage of superplasticizers and admixture incorporation were identified in this review. These techniques have been shown to improve 3D printed concrete properties while also reducing its cost and environmental impact. In conclusion, the paper provides an in-depth review of the present state of knowledge regarding the optimization of LC3 for 3D concrete printing and highlights the need for further research to optimize the material for 3D printing.