3D Printing Wood for Custom-design Window Frames

Abstract

Given the urgent sustainability goals, the construction industry is actively seeking renewable and recyclable biobased materials. In this research, cellulose and lignin, the most abundant biopolymers on earth, were studied as fundamental building blocks to create an innovative bio-based material to 3D print elements for the construction industry. Having obtained a 3D printable paste, the study presented in this paper delved into the 3D printing possibilities by using a clay extruder mounted on a robotic arm. A window frame was used as test case, addressing the existing gap in replacing or enhancing current window frames. To better understand the printing process and explore various geometric configurations, a section of a window frame was printed as proof of the concept.