Aggregate Structure: Reusable aggregates requiring no binding agent
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Project entry 2014 Europe – Aggregate Structure: Reusable aggregates requiring no binding agent, Stuttgart, Germany
An aggregate vault is made from a large number of designed particles, solidifying merely by frictional contact. The interlocking granules are poured over a formwork made of snow, ice, sand or a fluid designed aggregate. The load-bearing structure then makes up only 10-20% of the entire construction volume. Both structure and formwork are fully recyclable. The construction process itself is very rapid as the aggregate instantly stabilizes. (Image © ICD Stuttgart)
Aggregates are ubiquitous in the concrete production industry, yet are rarely deployed in an unbound form. This materials research project examines aggregate architectures made from designed injection-molded granulates which self-solidify. This pilot project for a ground-breaking construction method uses the potential of loose, designed granulates that can interlock and consequently require no additional binding agent; fully recyclable and adaptable to almost any site constraints.
Last updated: January 21, 2015 Stuttgart, Germany
Aggregates are ubiquitous in the concrete production industry, yet are rarely deployed in an unbound form. This materials research project examines aggregate architectures made from designed injection-molded granulates which self-solidify. This pilot project for a ground-breaking construction method uses the potential of loose, designed granulates that can interlock and consequently require no additional binding agent; fully recyclable and adaptable to almost any site constraints.
Aggregate architecture made from designed, self-solidifying granulates is an innovation in terms of approaches regarding construction technology and processes. The methodology is very simple and thus transferable: no expert training is needed. Both the design of granulates and the pouring itself can be replicated using both manual and digital aggregation methods. This project explores new frontiers in terms of fabrication and materials technology.
Read project overview: Aggregate Structure: Reusable aggregates requiring no binding agent