GUtech, a German University of Technology, Oman, and a pioneer of construction 3D printers, printed 3D models of three new buildings in Duqm. This is 540km from Oman’s capital. The entire construction was completed in just eight days. This is an unprecedented feat for 3D printing on-site.
Dr. Yousuf Al Bulushi, GUtech said: “GUtech has introduced the 3D concrete printing in the sultanate of Oman and shows how we could adopt the newest construction technology and employ it so we can get the most out of it. We have demonstrated the potential of 3D printing with the Duqm record-setting printing. We have a huge faith in our Omani expert team, and we are aiming to achieve beyond expected”
A 3D-printed commercial coffee shop was the first to be printed using 3D printing technology. It had a floor area measuring 81m2 (871SF). The entire printing process took 22 hours. The GU Tech Team managed to complete the construction in just three days. Eight hours of work were allocated each day. The construction measures in at 3,7m (12feet). Materials consumption totaled 19,6 m3 of concrete made from 99% locally available raw materials and COBOD’s Dfab solution was developed in cooperation with Cemex.
The second building is a public bathroom with an area of 20m2 (215 Sq. Ft.). The printing process took 13 hours and was split into two days. The building measures 3,5m (10 feet) in height. 10.6m3 concrete was used.
The last 3D printed building is a Fisherman’s house with an area of 72 m2 (775 SF). GUtech specialists only needed 19 hours of printing. This was divided into two days. This house has a single story and measures 3m (10ft) tall. It required 17,3 m3 concrete to complete the construction.
Teejan was the general contractor responsible for all 3D-printed buildings. The buildings were printed using local raw materials and the Dfab Solution developed by CEMEX and COBOD. This allows for concrete to be 3D printed at a low cost with 99% locally sourced material. The concrete used to build the three buildings cost only 3,600 USD. All buildings are load bearing walls without columns, roof slabs or parapets 3D printed.
Similar to NEOM in Saudi Arabia’s Duqm, this new area is based on several economic and tourism development zones. It includes a multipurpose port and a dry dock for repairs to ships, a fishing port and tourist, industrial, and logistical areas.
Duqm authorities approved the 3D printing method of construction and granted permits for 3D printed buildings. Zaid Marmash, head architect and responsible for the Middle East at COBOD said: “I am proud to have co-designed the buildings 3D printed by GUtech and approved in Duqm. These buildings reflect the futuristic, aspirational nature Duqm by using curves and other unconventional shapes. 3D concrete printing, as well as Duqm, are both very promising, and GUtech is providing the proof that the promises are being realized.”