Luyten 3D and the University of Wollongong have presented a pioneering system in Australia for printing concrete structures underwater. This underwater additive manufacturing technique opens up new possibilities for directly building and repairing marine infrastructure. It could be applied to creating artificial reefs, reinforcements for docks, or coastal defense elements, optimizing processes that are currently complex.
How additive manufacturing works in submerged environments 🏗️
The system uses a specialized nozzle that deposits fast-setting concrete layer by layer, even in the presence of water. The key lies in the material formulation and precise control of the extrusion to ensure the stability of the structure during the printing process. This eliminates the need for costly dry docks or temporary enclosures, allowing work to be done directly on site.
Fish can now order their underwater renovation 🐠
With this advancement, marine life will soon have custom decoration options. A hermit crab could order a shell with a reef view, and a school of fish, a block of apartments shaped like coral. Of course, they will need to be educated in the use of 3D modeling software. The logistics will be curious: material delivery is done by boat, but installation is handled by the printer, without operators needing to get their feet wet.