Zaha Hadid Architects and Holcim Present the Second 3D-Printed Concrete Bridge Concept Titled “Phoenix”

In a pioneering collaboration, Zaha Hadid Architects and Holcim unveiled their second 3D-printed concrete bridge concept, "Phoenix." This groundbreaking design, showcased initially at the 2021 Venice Architecture Biennale, is a testament to the continuous innovation in low-carbon structural solutions. With a focus on sustainability and circularity, the Phoenix Bridge marks a significant milestone in the evolution of integrated design-to-construction technologies.

Evolution of Innovation

The Phoenix design, weighing ten tons, represents an evolution of the concepts introduced in its predecessor, the Striatus bridge. Notably, the team was able to recycle the original blocks from the Striatus project, demonstrating a commitment to minimizing environmental impact and advancing circular construction practices. Holcim achieved a remarkable 25% reduction in Phoenix's overall CO2 footprint compared to Striatus, primarily attributed to using an updated ECOCycle circular technology and a specially formulated concrete ink developed by Holcim.

Construction Milestone in Lyon, France

Situated at Holcim's Innovation Hub in Lyon, France, the Phoenix Bridge symbolizes the industry's pursuit of low-carbon structural solutions. Completed recently, the project has become a showcase for successfully integrating design, construction technologies, and sustainable practices. Shajay Bhooshan, head of Zaha Hadid Architects' Computation and Design Group (ZHA CODE), emphasized the significance of Phoenix, stating that it represents a "milestone in technology readiness."

Technological Advancements and Collaborative Partnerships

The success of the Phoenix project is attributed to advancements in digital design tools, structural design enhancements, circularity-related improvements, and more tightly integrated robotic concrete printing parameters. Collaborative efforts with partners such as Block Research Group at ETH Zürich and incremental3D were crucial in realizing the bridge's construction. Notably, the method eliminates the need for concrete reinforcement or post-tensioning, aligning with sustainable construction principles.

Philippe Block, co-director of Block Research Group, highlighted the historical principles employed in the construction, drawing parallels with stone masonry arches. This approach facilitates easy materials recycling and allows for dry assembly, enabling straightforward deconstruction and reuse. The 3D concrete printing technology enables precise material usage, ensuring sustainability and a circular approach to concrete construction.

Also Read: 15 Essential Building Materials Architect Needs to Know, With Resources for Deeper Insight

Sustainable Applications

Holcim envisions that the 3D printing method showcased in the Phoenix project can extend beyond bridges. The technology can potentially construct floor slabs for high-rise buildings, providing additional low-carbon solutions for builders and architectural designers. The commitment to sustainable design principles remains a driving force in the evolution of 3D concrete printing technology.

Future Prospects

Johannes Megens, the co-founder of incremental3D, expressed excitement about Phoenix and anticipated the evolution of similar projects. The innovative spirit displayed in Phoenix sets the stage for the continued exploration of sustainable construction methods and the integration of 3D concrete printing in future architectural endeavors.

In conclusion, the Phoenix Bridge stands as a testament to the transformative power of collaborative innovation, pushing the boundaries of sustainable construction. As Zaha Hadid Architects and Holcim redefine what is possible in 3D-printed concrete, Phoenix emerges as a symbol of progress, sustainability, and a promising future for architectural design and construction practices.

Related Article: How Japan Spent More Than a Century Building Earthquake-Resistant Structures