PPVC to be used for First 3D-printed 4-story Building

Btief 

CyBe will use prefabricated prefinished volumetric construction to build the world’s first 3D-printed four-story apartment building. CyBe is teaming up with Eindhoven, Netherlands-based Living Lab 040 on the project, which will make use of a special mortar that reportedly sets in three minutes and attains structural strength in one hour.

Insight

CyBe, a global leader in 3D concrete printing with proprietary hardware, software, and printing materials, is collaborating with Lab040 in Eindhoven to create the first-ever, 3D printed, four-story apartment.

High-volume construction

To be clear, the building will not be 3D printed on location as several other 3D construction printing hardware providers do.

It will be assembled by Prefabricated Prefinished Volumetric Construction (PPVC), which is a way of constructing completed and finished units off-site for on-site installation. Using this modular construction technology, 3D units are produced in controlled factory settings with optimized construction methods and building materials.

The modules can be delivered to the construction site in a variety of states — from basic structural blocks to fully finished apartments complete with amenities. The assembly process is quick and maintains the concrete’s inherent benefits such as providing fire resistance, sound absorption, and thermal mass.

New standard of living

CyBe’s maximal Energy Performance Coefficient (EPC) is 0.2, setting the bar at an industry low. This figure translates to reduced costs in gas, water, and light — in some cases to zero. This also indicates low CO2 emissions — the process can even be oxygen positive.

CyBe’s holistic business model addresses several of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), such as SDG 11, Sustainable Cities and Communities. The company uses a micro and macro approach to ensure that cities and other communities are created to be inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable.

This is evident through CyBe’s use of economic and ecologically minded building technologies, and also through their community-focused programs and initiatives.