3D printed cement-based materials, renowned for their layered fabrication process, inherently form multi-interface structures. However, these interfaces have emerged as a critical weakness, significantly affecting the strength and performance of printed components. Traditional testing methods, such as direct tensile tests, often fail to accurately measure interfacial bond strength due to challenges in identifying failure points, hindering both research and industrial applications.

To address this industry-wide challenge, CBMA leveraged its technical expertise to unite 34 leading institutions worldwide to develop a standardized testing protocol. The newly implemented standard rigorously defines methodologies for evaluating interfacial strength of cement-based materials fabricated by extrusion printing. Key provisions include precise environmental and curing conditions, as well as specialized tests for interfacial tensile strength, shear strength, and splitting tensile strength. This standard is applicable to research, quality control, product development, as well as engineering, and establishes a unified framework for academia and industry.

The release of JC/T 2085-2024 marks a pivotal step in standardizing China’s 3D-printed construction materials sector. By addressing the lack of reliable evaluation criteria—a major barrier to commercializing 3D printed concrete—the standard is expected to drive technological upgrades, foster intelligent manufacturing practices, and unlock new opportunities in infrastructure, marine engineering, and architecture. Industry experts anticipate that this initiative will solidify China’s leadership in next-generation construction technologies while advancing global sustainable building practices.