Impact printing: Robot speed-prints walls by firing lumps of clay

A breakthrough in construction technology is here: a robot that speed-prints walls by shooting lumps of clay. This novel system, called "impact printing," could change the future of building by making the process faster, cheaper, and more sustainable.

Impact printing works by firing clay lumps downward at impressive speeds of up to 10 meters per second. As each lump hits the wall, it compresses and bonds with the layer beneath it, creating a strong, cohesive structure. The process eliminates the need for waiting for lower layers to dry before adding new ones, significantly speeding up construction time.

By using a mix of earth and recycled building waste instead of cement, this method significantly reduces the carbon footprint of construction projects. Considering that cement production alone is responsible for 8% of global carbon emissions, this is a promising step toward greener building practices.

The construction industry has set ambitious sustainability goals, aiming for net-zero emissions by 2050. With urban areas expanding faster than ever, innovative solutions like impact printing are essential.

Curious to see how it works? Watch the video to learn more about impact printing and how it could change construction as we know it.