A Novel Protocol for Specimen Extraction from 3D-Printed Concrete (3DPC) Elements for Mechanical Testing


Authors : Deepadharshan Shekar; Divya VS

Volume/Issue : Volume 10 - 2025, Issue 5 - May


Google Scholar : https://tinyurl.com/4w7vuw3c

DOI : https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/25may2355

Note : A published paper may take 4-5 working days from the publication date to appear in PlumX Metrics, Semantic Scholar, and ResearchGate.


Abstract : With the rapid advancement of 3D concrete printing (3DCP), the need for standardized and repeatable specimen preparation methods for mechanical testing has become increasingly important. This paper proposes a systematic and reproducible approach for extracting specimens from 3D-printed concrete elements to assess hardened properties such as compressive strength, splitting tensile strength, and flexural strength. A series of hollow slab sections and wall components were printed in various dimensions to represent directional orientations and facilitate multi- directional testing. A detailed methodology for cutting, core drilling, and preparing cube, cylinder, and prism samples is presented. Specific naming conventions and loading orientations are established to standardize interpretation of test results. The aim of this study is to enable consistent extraction and testing protocols that align with existing standards while accommodating the unique characteristics of 3DPC materials. Figures illustrating the procedures and geometries are included to support implementation.

Keywords : 3D Printed Concrete, Specimen Extraction Method, Mechanical Testing, Additive Manufacturing.

References :

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  2. P. S. Ambily, S. K. Kaliyavaradhan, S. Sebastian, and D. Shekar, “Mixing approach for 3D printable concrete: method of optimisation of superplasticiser dosage,” Mag. Concr. Res., pp. 1–17, Feb. 2024.
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With the rapid advancement of 3D concrete printing (3DCP), the need for standardized and repeatable specimen preparation methods for mechanical testing has become increasingly important. This paper proposes a systematic and reproducible approach for extracting specimens from 3D-printed concrete elements to assess hardened properties such as compressive strength, splitting tensile strength, and flexural strength. A series of hollow slab sections and wall components were printed in various dimensions to represent directional orientations and facilitate multi- directional testing. A detailed methodology for cutting, core drilling, and preparing cube, cylinder, and prism samples is presented. Specific naming conventions and loading orientations are established to standardize interpretation of test results. The aim of this study is to enable consistent extraction and testing protocols that align with existing standards while accommodating the unique characteristics of 3DPC materials. Figures illustrating the procedures and geometries are included to support implementation.

Keywords : 3D Printed Concrete, Specimen Extraction Method, Mechanical Testing, Additive Manufacturing.

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