SUPERHYDROPHOBIC SELF-LUMINOUS CONCRETE MATERIAL FOR 3D PRINTING AND METHOD FOR PREPARING SAME

Smart overview of the Invention

The patent application introduces a superhydrophobic self-luminous concrete material designed for 3D printing, aimed at enhancing building materials. This innovative concrete incorporates a variety of components including cement, quartz sand, silica fume, and a unique combination of luminous and reflective powders. The integration of a superhydrophobic coating further enhances the material's properties, making it suitable for energy-efficient and environmentally friendly construction applications.

Technical Field

The invention pertains to the field of building materials, specifically focusing on the development of concrete suitable for 3D printing. The material is engineered to exhibit superior thixotropic properties, allowing it to flow smoothly during extrusion and retain its shape post-extrusion. This makes it particularly advantageous for constructing intricate and uniquely shaped components that traditional concrete cannot easily achieve.

Background

3D printing technology in construction has gained significant attention due to its potential to revolutionize building processes. However, existing concrete formulations often lack the necessary properties for effective 3D printing. The synergistic design of this superhydrophobic self-luminous material addresses these limitations by providing self-cleaning capabilities, enhanced water resistance, and the ability to serve as an energy-efficient lighting solution in infrastructure applications like road signs and dividers.

Material Composition

The base layer of the concrete comprises ingredients in specified weight parts, including:

• Cement: 1000-1500 parts
• Quartz sand: 1000-1300 parts
• Silica fume: 50-100 parts
• Water: 300-400 parts
• Water reducing agent: 8-12 parts
• Cellulose ether: 1-2 parts
• Defoamer: 2-3 parts
• Fiber: 4-8 parts
• Luminous powder: 75-85 parts
• Reflective powder: 30-45 parts
• Metakaolin: 15-25 parts
• Metal filler: 0.015-0.040 part

The surface layer is enhanced with a superhydrophobic coating.

Preparation Method

The method for preparing this novel concrete involves several steps:

• Mixing cement, quartz sand, silica fume, luminous powder, reflective powder, metakaolin, and metal filler to form a solid powder.
• Adding water reducing agent, water, fiber, cellulose ether, and defoamer to the mix.
• Stirring the mixture in stages to ensure uniform consistency before using it in a 3D printer.
• Applying a superhydrophobic coating post-printing for enhanced durability and performance.

This approach not only improves mechanical properties like tensile strength but also ensures efficient preparation of complex structures with short setting times and high early strength.