Rheological response of Magnetorheological Cementitious Inks tuned for active control in digital construction

Abstract :

This presentation will report on Magnetorheological Cementitious Inks (MRCI) incorporating various proportions of portland cement, high-ferrous Class-F Fly Ash (FA), nanosilica, and nanoalumina (NA), which were blended and characterized for rheological response under magnetic field. This research was designed to understand better the effects of doping cement with magnetic material for application in ‘4D-printing’ of cementitious ‘smart materials.’ Control groups doped with industrial-grade magnetite powder (commonly used as a pigment) were likewise mixed and characterized to provide contrast to coal-combustion byproduct FA. MRCI mixtures supplemented with ferromagnetic particles had demonstrated enhanced yield stress when exposed to the applied magnetic field, leading to non-Newtonian rheological models exhibiting ‘sticky particles’ response. The research results suggest that the principle of utilizing an applied magnetic field for active control of flow and slump of cementitious materials extruded through 3D printing apparatus is worthy of further pursuit and development.

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Short bio :

Konstantin Sobolev is a Professor, Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. Dr. Sobolev’s research interests are in the application of nanotechnology in concrete; high-performance concrete; super-hydrophobic admixtures; eco-cements and utilization of by-products; mechano-chemical activation of cement; smart stress-sensing materials; photocatalytic materials.