Axial performances of the steel rebar reinforced column confined by the steel cable reinforced 3D concrete printing permanent formwork

Among reinforcement methods for 3D concrete printing (3DCP) structures, steel cable reinforcement and reinforced concrete confined by 3DCP formwork (RC-3DPF) methods offer high design freedom and automation. However, the former lacks reinforcement in directions perpendicular to the printing direction, and the latter cannot satisfy constructional requirements. This paper proposed a hybrid approach: the steel rebar reinforced concrete column confined by the steel cable reinforced 3DCP permanent formwork (RC-SC-3DPF). Axial compression tests and theoretical analysis were conducted to study axial performances. Test results showed steel cables and fibres added to 3DCP formwork benefit RC-SC-3DPF structural performances. With a steel cable confinement ratio above 0.534%, RC-SC-3DPF outperforms the traditional case. Steel fibre, compared to PVA fibre, demonstrates greater potential for RC-SC-3DPF due to improved axial load resistance and reduced ductility loss. A theoretical model, based on experimental results, existing standards, and M&T model, was developed to effectively evaluate RC-SC-3DPF structural behaviour.