In a groundbreaking development poised to reshape the construction industry, researchers have demonstrated the feasibility of using recycled steel scrap from demolished buildings in additive manufacturing processes. This innovation, published in the journal *Circular Economy* (translated from German as *Circular Economy*), could significantly reduce CO2 emissions and foster a more sustainable built environment.
At the heart of this research is Jan-Simeon Ludger Bernsmann, a scientist at RWTH Aachen University’s Digital Additive Production division. Bernsmann and his team have shown that steel scrap can be transformed into high-quality metal powder through gas atomization, which is then used in laser powder bed fusion (PBF-LB/M) to create construction materials with remarkable mechanical properties.
The process begins with the atomization of approximately 50 kg of steel scrap, yielding 27.8 kg of particles finer than 90 μm and 14.1 kg of particles ranging between 90 μm and 315 μm. The samples produced from this recycled powder exhibited a relative density of 99.9%, no porosity, and impressive mechanical properties. The average tensile strength of the material was measured at 808 MPa, with an average yield strength of 716.4 MPa.
“This proof of concept opens up new avenues for sustainable construction,” Bernsmann explained. “By utilizing recycled materials, we can reduce the environmental impact of the building sector, which accounts for a significant portion of global energy consumption and CO2 emissions.”
The implications of this research are far-reaching. The construction industry, which is responsible for 35% of global energy consumption and 38% of global CO2 emissions, stands to benefit greatly from this innovative approach. By incorporating recycled materials into additive manufacturing processes, the industry can move towards a more circular economy, where waste is minimized, and resources are used more efficiently.
“This technology has the potential to revolutionize the way we build,” Bernsmann added. “It aligns with the growing demand for sustainable and energy-efficient construction practices, offering a viable solution for reducing the carbon footprint of the built environment.”
As the world grapples with climate change and energy scarcity, the need for sustainable construction practices has never been more urgent. This research provides a promising path forward, demonstrating that recycled materials can be transformed into high-quality construction materials through additive manufacturing. The commercial impacts for the energy sector are substantial, as the adoption of these practices could lead to significant reductions in energy consumption and CO2 emissions.
In the broader context, this research highlights the importance of innovation in driving sustainable development. By leveraging advanced technologies like additive manufacturing, the construction industry can play a pivotal role in creating a more sustainable future. As Bernsmann and his team continue to explore the potential of recycled materials in construction, the possibilities for a greener, more efficient built environment become increasingly tangible.
The research, published in *Circular Economy*, underscores the critical role of circular economy principles in shaping the future of construction. By embracing these principles, the industry can move towards a more sustainable and resilient future, where resources are used wisely, and waste is minimized. This groundbreaking work by Bernsmann and his team at RWTH Aachen University is a testament to the power of innovation in driving sustainable development and shaping the future of construction.