IIT Guwahati Pioneers Thermal-Efficient 3D Printed Concrete Lattice Walls for Sustainable Buildings

GUWAHATI, 24 April 2025: In a significant stride toward sustainable construction, researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati have advanced the understanding of thermal performance in 3D printed concrete lattice walls. Led by Dr. Biranchi Panda, Assistant Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering, the study investigates how innovative wall geometries can regulate indoor temperatures and improve energy efficiency in buildings.

The research, published in the international journal Progress in Additive Manufacturing, is co-authored by Dr. Panda, research scholar Mr. Dhrutiman Dey, Dr. Yash Shukla, and Dr. Rajan Rawal of CEPT University, Ahmedabad.

The team explored the use of 3D Concrete Printing (3DCP)—a fast-evolving construction technique that fabricates structures directly from digital designs using an extrusion-based method. Unlike conventional methods, 3DCP eliminates the need for formwork, reducing construction waste by up to 60%, project duration by 70%, and labour costs by 80%. The technology also supports architectural creativity by enabling complex designs, including lattice structures with controlled voids.

Commenting on the findings, Dr. Panda stated, “We performed comprehensive experimental and computational analyses to assess how different lattice configurations influence heat transfer. The research not only enhances our understanding of the thermal behavior of such structures but also offers practical insights for designing climate-responsive buildings.”

The study is among the first in India to evaluate the thermal implications of 3D printed lattice concrete walls, making a vital contribution to the field of sustainable architecture. The results indicate that strategic manipulation of void sizes and patterns can significantly impact a building’s internal thermal environment, potentially reducing reliance on mechanical cooling or heating systems.

IIT Guwahati’s research supports broader efforts to incorporate digital manufacturing into environmentally responsible construction, offering scalable solutions for affordable housing and urban development tailored to India’s diverse climatic conditions.

The team is now focused on developing multifunctional concrete structures that are resilient and adaptable across various ecological zones.