Self-compacting concrete in digital fabrication and architectural construction: A review

Abstract

The beginnings of this century and the end of the last century witnessed a rapid development in production of advanced materials and digital fabrication in architectural construction. This was a combined by the availability of new possibilities in architecture to achieve sustainable solutions, especially to construct double layer facades. Advances have been made to produce concrete that has new properties, especially with self-compacting concrete, which provides new horizons to sustainability by reducing the total amount of cement, water and aggregate, that are required. As well as providing an easier way for construction and possibility of implementation for complex forms. The research problem is revealed as: “The need to identify the role of self-compacting concrete in digital fabrication and architectural construction for the implementation of sustainable design solutions in double layer facades”. The research goal is determined as to “Identify the role of self-compacting concrete in digital fabrication and architectural construction for the implementation of sustainable design solutions in double layer facades”. It follows a methodology of five steps. First, the most used types of nanomaterials and fibers that are added to produce self-compacting concrete. Second, fabrication process that is used for producing molds. Third, construction methods. Fourth, the role of self-compacting concrete for sustainability. Fifth, the role of self-compacting concrete in the implementation of sustainable solutions of double layer facades through the case studies that are chosen. The research concludes that the best solution is made by adding smog-eating nanomaterials and recycling building materials to produce precast components.