ABSTRACT

This paper details the research project “Closed Loop,” which uses recycled bioplastics in robotic 3D printing for creating structural, architectural-scale parts. The project focuses on designing and fabricating a collective bench made from recycled plastic, serving as a case study for examining manufacturing and scalability issues. The bench’s design incorporates six self-similar components, 3D printed and assembled on-site, showcasing the potential of recycled plastics as a sustainable and structurally sound building material. The paper presents the technical aspects of the process, including material testing, printing parameters, and structural optimization. The findings highlight the potential of Robotic Additive Manufacturing (RAM) for future architectural applications.