Recycling Large-Scale 3D Printed Polymer Composite Precast Concrete Forms

Large-scale thermoplastic extrusion-based 3D printing, also referred to as additive manufacturing (AM), has shown promise for a multitude of applications in civil infrastructure. Advancements in this technology have led to increased usage and a subsequent increase in generated waste. Recently, the opportunity to recycle this material has contributed to lessening this waste. Presented in this work are established baseline thermo-mechanical and physical properties of carbon fiber – acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (CF-ABS) and wood flour – amorphous poly lactic acid (WF-aPLA). Additionally, this work is to be used in comparison with subsequent recycling cycles in evaluation of the mechanical recycling process for large-scale 3D printed CF-ABS and WF-aPLA with intended applications as formwork for precast concrete.