3D printed Earth

For thousands of years, people have been building with earth (clay, adobe) as a natural material. It can be durable, transformed and at the same time return to the soil without leaving any residue.

In this research project, the material is enhanced by the digital fabrication of 3D printing, giving earth an unprecedented freedom of form. Settings, processes, and properties are explored in numerous experiments. Unlike many other printed clay materials, this one remains unfired, allowing it to stay transformable. Earth is a sustainable, versatile, and time-tested building material, offering excellent thermal mass, fire resistance, sound absorption, and eco-friendliness while being customizable for various needs. For example the bioreceptive earth could be used in urban spaces.