At IRDL, Mamadou Younoussa Barry has developed a predictive model to optimize 3D printing of concrete.
Mamadou Younoussa Barry, chercheur·e au sein de IRDL (Institut National Polytechnique de Bretagne).
Thèse soutenue en 2025 à l'école doctorale École doctorale Sciences Pour l'Ingénieur (Lorient ; 2022-....).
Référencée dans le réseau ABES/STAR, cette thèse répond aux critères de rigueur de l'enseignement supérieur français.
3D printing of concrete represents a significant advancement in the construction sector, offering possibilities for digitization and automation that were unimaginable a few years ago. This technology not only reduces costs and construction timelines but also paves the way for innovative architectural designs. However, the variability of the rheological properties of cementitious materials poses a major challenge in ensuring the quality and durability of structures. Indeed, the strength and longevity of constructions heavily depend on the characteristics of the concrete used, which can vary based on numerous factors. The research conducted by Mamadou Younoussa Barry aims to establish a link between printing parameters and the mechanical properties of structures, integrating real-time monitoring methods, which represents a crucial advancement in this field.
Preliminary results from this research show that environmental factors such as humidity and temperature significantly influence the mechanical performance of printed concrete. For example, high humidity can lead to slower setting times for concrete, thereby affecting its final strength. Similarly, extreme temperatures can cause cracks or deformations in the material. In response, innovative instruments have been developed to monitor these parameters in real-time, allowing for a better understanding of the interactions within the material. These instruments, such as temperature and humidity sensors integrated into the printing process, provide unprecedented visibility into manufacturing conditions.
The strategic recommendations arising from this research include adapting concrete formulations based on manufacturing conditions and implementing on-site quality control protocols. For instance, it may be wise to adjust the composition of the concrete mix according to weather forecasts to optimize mechanical performance. These measures aim to improve the mechanical strength of printed concrete and to quickly assess changes in the material's behavior. By integrating these practices, construction companies can not only ensure the quality of their works but also reduce the risks of long-term structural failure.
It is essential to consider how these advancements can be integrated into current construction practices. Industry stakeholders must question their ability to adopt these new technologies and train their teams in these innovative methods. This involves not only financial investment but also a cultural shift within companies. Optimizing the 3D printing process of concrete could transform the construction landscape, but it requires a collective willingness to innovate and adapt. Companies that can leverage these technological advancements will be better positioned to meet the future challenges of the sector.
In conclusion, Barry's research paves the way for a new era in construction, where the quality and durability of materials can be ensured through advanced instrumentation and predictive models. These developments are not only relevant to the construction sector but also have profound implications for public policy. Policymakers must take these advancements into account to guide public policies towards a broader adoption of these technologies. In West Africa, for example, where infrastructure is often inadequate, the integration of 3D printing of concrete could offer sustainable and economically viable solutions for urban development. In summary, Mamadou Younoussa Barry's research is not limited to technical considerations but fits into a broader framework of transforming the construction sector, with potential benefits for society as a whole.
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Sources et accès
Mamadou Younoussa Barry. Contrôle en ligne et hors ligne des paramètres d'impression 3D du béton pour la prédiction des propriétés en service. Génie civil. Université de Bretagne Sud, 2025. Français. ⟨NNT : 2025LORIS750⟩. ⟨tel-05546787⟩