Additive manufacturing with varying material properties of thermosetting reactive polymers

A framework and comparison of different modes for implementing material transitions

Journal Article (2025)
Authors

A.M. Pajonk (Münster University of Applied Sciences, Architectural Technology)

A. Luna Luna-Navarro (Architectural Technology)

Ulrich Knaack (Architectural Technology)

Ulrich Blum (Münster University of Applied Sciences)

Research Group
Architectural Technology
To reference this document use:
https://doi.org/10.1080/00038628.2024.2348141
More Info
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Publication Year
2025
Language
English
Research Group
Architectural Technology
Issue number
2
Volume number
68
Pages (from-to)
81-93
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.1080/00038628.2024.2348141
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Abstract

Additive Manufacturing with Varying Material Properties enables controlled spatial variation of material properties in 3D-printed components, facilitating custom-tailored characteristics, added functionalities and reduced assembly processes. To promote this approach in building façade applications, this paper presents a novel framework for Additive Manufacturing with varying material properties using a thermosetting reactive polymer, specifically polyurethane. By dynamically changing the polyurethane’s chemical composition, the material properties can be precisely controlled. The framework’s individual aspects, including the material, hardware setup and computational system, are described in detail. Additionally, the research explores the implementation of material transitions with this framework, highlighting three different modes (horizontal, vertical and multi plane) and their impact on print time and material consumption. The paper concludes by discussing the potential of this approach for building façade applications, addressing current challenges and outlining future research directions.