IAAC pioneers sustainable construction with Spain's first 3D printed earth building, TOVA

IAAC (Institute for Advanced Architecture of Catalonia) has unveiled TOVA, the first building in Spain to be constructed using a 3D printer and earth, resulting from IACC's ongoing research initiatives aimed at discovering new ways to tackle social and environmental challenges through education and research programs. 

The Valldaura Labs facility on the outskirts of Barcelona served as the site for the construction of this prototype, which serves as a link between vernacular earthen architecture from the past and large-scale 3D printing technology from the future. This innovation will not only revolutionize future architecture but will also be critical in addressing the present global housing and climate crisis.

The IAAC's 3dPA post-graduate research program has created a new project. Its primary aim is to equip young architects and academics with the skills and knowledge required for the future of construction, while simultaneously investigating the potential of 3D printing within the industry.

The new project, 'TOVA', is just the start of a larger collaborative initiative with WASP. The ultimate goal is to construct a complete house utilizing 3D printing technology.

Fast, waste-free and adaptable construction

Spain's latest architectural achievement is a groundbreaking construction that is not only the first of its kind in the country but also one of the most sustainable and eco-friendly building forms in existence today. In a mere 7 weeks, the structure was erected using a Crane WASP, an advanced 3D printer, and materials sourced within a 50-meter radius of the site.

Thanks to the unique building techniques employed during the construction process, zero waste was generated. The structure itself is made of local earth, mixed with enzymes and additives that lend it the necessary structural integrity and elasticity for optimized 3D printing. The foundation was constructed with geo-polymer, while the roof was fashioned from wood.

To ensure the structure's resilience against weather and the elements, a waterproof coating was added using naturally extracted raw materials like aloe and egg whites. With such innovative and sustainable building methods at our disposal, the future of architecture looks brighter than ever.

Taking into consideration the climatic conditions of the Mediterranean, the building's design is intended to offer protection from the cold in winter, while being adaptable for use in the other three seasons of the year by expanding and utilizing the surrounding outdoor environment. The walls are built with a series of cavities to allow for airflow and exceptional insulation to prevent heat loss during the winter and to safeguard against solar radiation in the summer.

This building is designed to have nearly zero emissions by utilizing a locally sourced material in its construction, which reduces waste and sets a leading example of a low-carbon structure. Traditional construction methods contribute to 36% of CO2 emissions, making this building a groundbreaking innovation.

The potential uses for this construction model are limitless, with the ability to create homes, public spaces, interiors, and exteriors. By incorporating this construction model with other systems, it is feasible to develop complex and innovative structures that minimize the environmental impact of construction.

Homes to face the housing emergency crisis of today and the future

The aim of the project was to create a sustainable housing prototype that could be replicated worldwide, providing a quick solution to housing problems in vulnerable areas and temporary settlements. By utilizing 3D printing, the construction process can be completed using locally sourced materials and labour, resulting in more affordable and customizable living spaces.

This initiative by IAAC addresses the growing concerns around climate change and migration crises, offering innovative solutions that can positively impact the global housing crisis, particularly in the wake of natural disasters or mass migrations. The use of 3D printing offers a promising solution to the urgent need for emergency housing for asylum seekers and other communities in need of immediate shelter.

Located in Barcelona, the Institute for Advanced Architecture of Catalonia (IAAC) has been active for 17 years and serves as a centre for research, training, production, and communication. Its mission is to envision and construct the future habitat of society in the present by following the digital revolution and pushing the boundaries of architecture and design. IAAC utilizes an experimental and experiential approach to learning, promoting real solutions through testing methodologies.

WASP, or World's Advanced Saving Project, is a company established in 2012 in Massa Lombarda, Italy that designs, produces, and distributes 3D printers made in Italy worldwide. The company's range of 3D printers is designed to meet human needs in various areas such as food, housing, health, energy, work, art, and culture. Inspired by the Potter Wasp, which constructs its nest with recovered materials from the environment, WASP's primary goal is to create large-scale 3D printers capable of building houses using natural and available materials. 

WASP's main target is to provide effective benefits to humans through technological innovation and research. The company's first printer, the Power WASP, was introduced in 2012, and since then, they have developed a range of small and large printers, including the Delta WASP Industrial line, the Clay line, and others. WASP has presented more technological advancements in its 3D printers in 2021, including those capable of extruding bio-polymers, super-techno polymers, recycled materials, pellets, natural materials, raw earth, and industrial clay to meet market demands. 

Today, the Delta WASP Clay line is a market leader, particularly in the architectural field, as it optimizes the LDM system by 3D printing fluid-dense materials and industrial clays continuously and in large dimensions.

 

***

Cover photo: 3D Print House by IAAC, Valldaura Labs ©Gregori Civera