Finite-Element Modeling of Reinforced Additively Constructed Concrete Structures

As additive construction technologies evolve, the US Army Engineer Research and Development Center has studied the functionality and structural integrity of structures produced using additive construction methodologies. Compared with precast construction, additive construction has multiple advantages including unique geometries, reduction of worker power, no required formwork, and ability to use locally sourced materials. The purpose of this study is to evaluate additively-constructed concrete structures and compare it with conventional construction methods. Static analyses are performed using finite-element modeling on several precast concrete beams and compared with experimental data. A finite-element model was created for additively-constructed beams by incorporating cohesive interaction properties to evaluate the interface strength between three-dimensional (3D) printed layers. To further validate the model, an additively-constructed concrete wall is also experimentally tested and compared with models. Numerical predictions are developed to explore damage caused by interfaces of additively-constructed structures and its effects on the structural performance. Maximum deflections and peak loads were also obtained for the conventional construction method experimentally with finite-element models.