3D Printed Bricks Designed to Stand Up to Earthquakes
Photo Credit: Inside 3DP
When I first moved to the Pacific North West, one of the first things I noticed was the lack of brick-based architecture – an obvious nod to life in an Earthquake zone. But that could someday change…
According to Inside 3DP, “one California-based architecture firm, Emerging Objects, …(has) gone back to basics and reinvented the humble brick to create the Quake Column. This appropriately named pillar is manufactured from 3D printed bricks, made from sand using the ancient art of Incan masonry.
Not only can it withstand earthquakes, but the bricks require no cement or mortar to hold them together. This is due to the design of the bricks which interlock, rather like a secure 3D puzzle. Once the bricks have been assembled, they then become earthquake proof as they do not allow any kind of horizontal movement.”
Other advantages cited:
- The printed bricks can be marked in a way that ensures accurate assembly even by untrained laborers
- They are hollow but strong, reducing material use and product weight
And if they are made from readily available raw materials, one would hope that the cost to produce them would be low, perhaps much like the 3D printed mud homes being proposed by WASP.
View Latest Posts
COVID-19 Personal Protective Equipment: Extra Protection for High Risk Individuals and Environments
RapidMade is manufacturing COVID-19 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Orders under 30 units should be placed via the Amazon product links below. Fluid Barrier Face Masks
AM Forward Initiative Drives the Adoption of 3D Printing
From prototyping to industrial-strength parts and products, additive manufacturing (AM) offers an innovative solution for accelerating production timelines and keeping costs low amid rising inflation
Now Hiring: Finisher/Shop Technician
Now Hiring: Production Shop Technician Please send resume and cover letter to info@rapidmade.com if interested! Job Description: Learn in-demand production skills and be a part