On the Use of Waste Materials for Thermal Improvement of 3D-Printed Block—An Experimental Comparison

Over the years, building envelope has evolved from a protective barrier element to complex filter system capable of optimizing interactions between external and internal environments. An efficient reacts flexibly variable conditions, minimizing heat losses in winter season. Therefore, insulating materials play fundamental role building’s thermal performance. In this scenario, Additive Manufacturing represents an emerging promising solution for construction sector. Three-dimensional printing allows creation custom geometries, reduces material waste, automates process. This work aims compare performance PLA (polylactic acid) 3D-printed block with honeycomb structure whose air cavities are filled natural recyclable waste-insulating materials. The selected cavity filling (i) wood sawdust, (ii) sheep’s wool, (iii) hemp. behavior different was experimentally tested via Heat Flow Meter (HFM) method controlled environment (Hot Box). results showed that introduction waste significantly improved compared case cavities. A transmittance (U-value) reduction up 57% obtained. Moreover, wool best performance, U-value equal 0.53 ± 0.02 W/m2K, i.e., 18.5% less than sawdust 19.7%