University of Maine (UMaine) Advanced Structures and Composites Center (ASCC) revealed BioHome3D, the first 3D-printed house made with %100 bio-based materials.
BioHome3D was created with funding from the US Department of Energy’s Hub and Spoke program, a collaboration between the University of Maine and Oak Ridge National Laboratory. MaineHousing and the Maine Technology Institute were among the collaborators.
The 55-square-meter prototype has 3D-printed wood fiber and bio-resin floors, walls, and roofs. The house is fully recyclable and highly insulated with 100% wood insulation and customizable R-values.
“Our state is facing the perfect storm of a housing crisis and labor shortage, but the University of Maine is stepping up once again to show that we can address these serious challenges with trademark Maine ingenuity,” said Gov. Janet Mills.
BioHome3D was printed in four modules, then transported to the site and assembled in less than a half-day. Within two hours, power was restored with only one electrician on-site.
“Many technologies are being developed to 3D print homes, but unlike BioHome3D, most are printed using concrete. However, only the concrete walls are printed on top of a conventionally cast concrete foundation. Traditional wood framing or wood trusses are used to complete the roof,” said Dagher, ASCC executive director.
The University of Maine and Oak Ridge National Laboratory are pioneering the research and development of sustainable, cost-effective bio-based 3D printing feedstock alternatives, such as the material used in BioHome3D.
