Green High-Performance Mortars for 3D Printing Applications

The present research work focuses on the study and design of innovative mix designs of high-performance mortars with biochar, which is a waste material that gives the mortar a green connotation. Dimensional stability of the mortar at the fresh state is assessed through an extrusion test to evaluate the suitability of the material to be produced via 3D printing technology. In addition to the mechanical properties (flexural and compressive strength), the fracture behaviour of the mortar in crack mouth opening displacement mode is investigated. In this experimental campaign, different parameters are studied and their effect on the mechanical performance and fracture behaviour of the innovative green high-performance mortar are investigated, including aggregate/cement ratio, maximum diameter of the aggregate, and type of aggregate.