Recently, Holcim Group was informed that it has launched Tector 3D Mortar in the South American market, the first locally manufactured material in Argentina specifically for additive construction (AC). This product was jointly developed by Holcim Argentina Innovation and Research Center and Argentine machinery manufacturer Teknix, and has been successfully used to 3D print full-scale building components.
Tector 3D Mortar is a material made from a mixture of cement, sand and specific additives, optimised specifically for additive construction technology. Although this special mortar is widely used in the field of 3D printed buildings, it is still questioned because its strength is not as good as that of traditional cement. However, it is very easy to print and is very suitable for use in specific projects.
Around the world, Holcim has used 3D printing in projects including schools in Malawi, affordable housing in Kenya and bridges in Italy and France. Although Holcim is an investor in COBOD, a manufacturer of concrete 3D printers, it was particularly important to collaborate with a local machinery manufacturer in this case, mainly due to Argentina’s strict import regulations.
The development of the Tector 3D Mortar is a major breakthrough for Argentina. For a long time, the country has faced complex regulatory and logistical hurdles in introducing advanced construction technologies. The introduction of high-tech equipment and materials into Argentina often involves lengthy customs procedures and high import duties. Local development of these technologies is therefore particularly important, as it can bypass these obstacles and promote local innovation capacity and manufacturing.
Christian Dedeu, CEO of Hauser & Wirth Argentina, emphasises the importance of this technology: ‘3D printing is not just a tool for improving construction efficiency and precision, it is also a commitment to innovation and sustainability. At Hauser & Wirth Argentina, we are proud to be leading the way with this pioneering technology and proving that construction can be done smarter with digital solutions.’
The influence of Holcim in the field of additive construction is rapidly expanding around the world. Although Europe and North America have a large number of 3D printed structures, the technology is likely to have a greater impact in third world countries and the Middle East. Dubai in the United Arab Emirates, in particular, has specific plans in place for the rapid deployment of additive construction. Meanwhile, South America and Africa are also making great efforts to promote the use of this technology in the construction industry.
