How it works
Coastruction's technology enables a zero-waste printing process with cement like materials and just water as an activator
Our solution requires less material and reduces transportation emissions!
THE PROCESS
Resource-saving production process
With our technology we can build geometrically complex organic shapes while delivering unprecedented savings on material use. For our designs we use shapes that are found in nature (biomimicry) and which are optimized to local conditions. The printing process does not require support material for these complex shapes since the unbound powder surround the printed shape.
We print by using a printhead, that moves across a bed of dry powder mix, selectively depositing water as an activator for the cement. When the water is infused into the dry mix solid areas are being formed.
After a layer is printed, the print bed lowers and another layer of dry mix is spread across the entire bed. Over time, the structure builds up through each water infused layer adhering to the last.
Once the print job is finished, the result is with a block of loose powder with the printed structure contained inside. For post-processing, the part will be freed of unbound powder and placed to cure.
CIRCULAR AND SUSTAINABLE
Sustainable use of material
With our technology we can build geometrically complex organic shapes while delivering unprecedented savings on material use. For our designs we use shapes that are found in nature (biomimicry) and which are optimized to local conditions. The printing process does not require support material for these complex shapes since the unbound powder surround the printed shape.
Unlike other 3D printing processes, our technology does not use high temperatures nor does it needs chemical additives. Moreover, the raw materials stay in their original condition until the infusion takes place. This eliminates the production of waste since loose material will be used in the next print, unsatisfying prints can be shredded and reused as well.
Our production process enables an endless circle of recycling by returning the excess material to the production process. The flexibility of the printing process is applicable to individual items as well as for production in high quantities.
We only use natural materials
With our technology we stimulate local economies. We do this not only by improving the biodiversity and fishing yields on the project site, but also by involving the community.
We made our printers transportable and therefore we can print on-site. During the design process we collaborate with local knowledge holders to include their knowledge in the designs. When printing, we hire local staff and train them to operate the printers. Because we use local resources we buy the components of our reefs locally.
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
