Russia Develops “Smart” Building Materials for 3D-Printed Homes
A joint project by Tomsk scientists and Smart Build Service could transform construction across remote regions.
Researchers at Tomsk State University of Architecture and Building and the company Smart Build Service are developing specialized construction mixes designed for 3D printing houses. The goal is to adapt the materials for different geographical and climatic conditions, enabling fast and efficient construction even in hard-to-reach areas of Russia.
A new high-tech laboratory will be established as part of the partnership, centered around a large-format 3D construction printer more than eight meters tall. The equipment will allow engineers to refine printing technologies and experiment with new formulations. The project’s main objective is to design customized material recipes based on building height, local climate, and other operational factors.
From Ash to Architecture
Tomsk scientists have already created an innovative eco-friendly mix that enables the printing of buildings up to 20 meters high. The material incorporates up to 10% ash and mining waste, making it both sustainable and cost-effective. Smart Build Service is currently using it to print a two-story, 180-square-meter home in the Altai Republic, with the entire process expected to take around 200 hours — and no interior finishing required.
The project is particularly important for developing Russia’s Arctic and northern territories, where durable, frost-resistant materials are essential. To sustain innovation, the partners plan to involve students in the work, adding 3D construction modules to educational programs and training a new generation of engineers for the era of automated building.
