A team of researchers from the Eindhoven University of Technology has recently 3D printed a concrete bridge. While people have experimented with 3D printed bridges before, the university researchers made this bridge specifically for cyclists in Germert, Netherlands. The team printed the bridge at the University using their large research and development printer. After three months of hard work, the team completed the bridge and were able to put it to use. All in all, it took 800 layers to build the futuristic piece which spans roughly 26 feet long and 11 feet wide. The bridge is a significant development for eco-friendly builders because it creates less CO2 emissions than traditionally built bridges. The printer is programmed to make the exact amount of concrete needed for a structure, so there is less material required for projects. The efficiency of printing also eliminates the possibility of wasted materials. The traditional method of filling molds with concrete was not as streamlined and consequently produced a much higher carbon footprint.
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