Zaha Hadid Architects, a group of Block Research Group researchers from the Swiss Higher Technical School of Zurich, incremental3D (in3D) and Holcim have teamed up to create the Striatus Bridge, an unreinforced concrete structure whose strength is achieved through geometry.

Ekaterina Goncharenko

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The first non-reinforced concrete bridge printed on a 3D printer is a vivid evidence that 3D printing can be used in the creation of load—bearing concrete structures and at the same time save time and materials, as well as reduce carbon dioxide emissions into the atmosphere.

The arched shape of the structure refers to traditional masonry bridges, but Striatus is “assembled” in an innovative way: the strength of the bridge is provided by concrete layers located at certain angles — due to this, the blocks are well pressed against each other and do not require additional reinforcement. This special concrete “ink” for 3D printer was developed by Holcim for this project.

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“This precise 3D printing method allows us to combine the principles of traditional construction with digital technologies and use materials only where necessary, without waste generation,” explains Philippe Block, professor at the Swiss Higher Technical School of Zurich.

The dimensions of the bridge are 12 x 16 m, while the structure can be easily disassembled and reassembled elsewhere. Until November 2021, the bridge will stand in the Giardino della Marinaressa Venetian garden, and if the construction suddenly becomes unnecessary, the materials can be sent for recycling, so Striatus meets the three R-principles of sustainability — Reduce, Reuse, Recycle.

Photo: naaro

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