Italian 3D printing company WASP has unveiled a suite of sustainable technologies during this year’s Formnext tradeshow, taking place in Frankfurt, Germany. The new product offerings are aimed at addressing growing environmental concerns while enhancing operational efficiency across multiple sectors, including architecture, manufacturing, and design. With over a decade of research underpinning these innovations, WASP focuses on material reuse and sustainable construction practices.
The highlights of WASP’s showcase included a comprehensive recycling station for plastics, a dynamic multicolour extrusion system, and large-scale 3D printing solutions. Among these developments is a showcase project completed in partnership with the Institute for Advanced Architecture of Catalonia (IAAC), where researchers erected a 100 m² low-carbon building prototype using a Crane WASP 3D printer at the 3D Printed Earth Forest Campus in Barcelona. The structure, constructed from locally sourced soil and natural materials, is specifically designed to help mitigate the global housing shortage while also reducing the carbon emissions typically associated with construction. The building features lightweight walls that enhance temperature regulation and allow for natural ventilation.
Earlier innovations by WASP include the TECLA eco-friendly house, developed in collaboration with architect Mario Cucinella. This prototype, constructed in 2021 from recyclable materials, showcased a design that incorporated local soil into a self-supporting structure. Energy efficiency was a priority in this development, with the dome-shaped buildings being constructed over a span of 200 hours while consuming a mere 6 kW of energy and utilising 60 cubic feet of material.
At the current tradeshow, WASP has also presented a computational column in collaboration with Eindhoven University, using 3D printed geopolymer modules as an alternative to traditional clay. These modules not only reduce energy consumption but also boast durability and the capability to support plant growth and wildlife habitats, thereby emphasising their environmental benefits. The company claims these geopolymers could lower CO₂ emissions by as much as 80%, offering a sustainable alternative to conventional cement.
In line with its commitment to environmental restoration, WASP's collaboration with rrreefs featured prominently at the show. Live 3D printing demonstrated the creation of coral reef modules, using WASP 40100 production systems and Liquid Deposition Modelling (LDM) technology. These modules are designed to promote biodiversity and provide coastal protection, reflecting WASP’s dual focus on ecological restoration and community engagement.
The firm introduced RIGENERA, a system aimed at creating a circular process for reusing plastic materials, which is described as a solution to manage waste in the 3D printing sector. This innovative recycling station is equipped with tools for collection, shredding, and reprinting, enabling waste transformation into functional components. The setup includes components such as collection bins, a chainsaw for reducing large pieces, a plastic shredder, and a dehumidifier.
On the topic of colour precision in 3D printing, WASP launched the METAMORFOSI system, which enables dynamic multicolour pellet extrusion. This technology allows for real-time control over colour positioning and hue management, facilitating vibrant outputs ideal for custom applications. Integration with AiBuild slicing software is expected to enhance its capabilities for handling complex designs.
For large-scale applications, WASP unveiled its POWER WASP 45 HDP Fused Granular Fabrication (FGF) 3D printer. This printer delivers improved material usage and surface quality by working at a 45° printing angle, effectively minimising the need for support structures. Notably, it is designed to meet the demands of marine and nautical sectors.
The EXTRUDER HDP XXL, specifically developed for large-scale FGF applications, was also introduced at the event. This extruder features High-Definition Pellet (HDP) technology, allowing for direct printing with thermoplastic pellets and compatibility with robotic arms via the CEREBRO system. Importantly, it can also process 100% in-house recycled plastic shreds, making it adaptable for various industrial tasks.
WASP’s presence at Formnext 2024 underscores its ongoing commitment to advancing sustainable practices, showcasing an array of new technologies aimed at improving material efficiency and reducing environmental impact within the additive manufacturing landscape.
Source: Noah Wire Services