A remarkable new project in Almaty, Kazakhstan, demonstrates that 3D-printed homes can withstand extreme weather and seismic conditions. Built in just five days, this house was significantly cheaper to construct than a traditional brick-and-mortar home.
Central Asia’s First 3D-Printed House
Designed by BM Partners, this unnamed house is Central Asia’s first 3D-printed home. The construction was executed using one of COBOD’s BOD2 printers, the same model used for Europe’s largest data center. This achievement highlights the potential of 3D printing technology in diverse applications and locations.
Innovative Construction Process
The house’s walls were printed using the COBOD 3D printer, which extruded a cement-like mixture layer by layer. Given Almaty’s strict seismic regulations, the team utilized a robust cement mix capable of withstanding earthquakes up to 7.0 on the Richter scale. This mixture ensures the home meets local safety standards while maintaining structural integrity.
Enhanced Structural Integrity
“To enhance the building’s structural integrity, BM Partners used a special strong concrete mix with a compression strength of almost 60 MPa (8,500 PSI), substantially exceeding the 7-10 MPa (1,015-1,450 PSI) typical of conventional brick and stone used in Kazakhstan,” explains COBOD. The mix, developed in collaboration with Cemex, includes locally sourced cement, sand, and gravel enhanced with the D.fab admixture. This allows for customized concrete formulations tailored to regional needs.
Adapted for Extreme Climate
Considering Kazakhstan’s extreme climate, ranging from minus 57 to plus 49 degrees Celsius (minus 70.6 to plus 120 degrees Fahrenheit), the building incorporates expanded polystyrene concrete for wall insulation. This material improves both the thermal and acoustic performance of the walls, making the house comfortable and energy-efficient in harsh weather conditions.
Conclusion
This 3D-printed house not only showcases the potential for rapid, cost-effective construction but also demonstrates resilience against extreme weather and seismic activity. The project by BM Partners and COBOD sets a new standard for affordable and durable housing solutions.
