First lightweight 3D printed bridge prototype is versatile and sustainable

The first lightweight 3D printed bridge prototype has been designed for pedestrian use by Royal HaskoningDHV, CEAD and DSM. The three companies are working together to lead a revolution in bridge construction and design, showcasing how leading companies in the Netherlands are partnering to be at the forefront in the transition towards a more circular economy.

Royal HaskoningDHV is an international engineering and project management consultancy, DSM, a global science-based company in nutrition, health and sustainable living and pioneer in 3D printing materials, and CEAD, supplier of 3D printing equipment on the frontier of large-scale composite additive manufacturing.

The bridge was made from composite material, consisting of a glass filled thermoplastic PET that is combined with continuous glass fibers which are added in the 3D printing process. This unique combination offers high strength with extreme versatility and sustainability. Fiber Reinforced Polymer (FRP) bridges are already known for having a longer lifetime expectancy with lower life cycle costs compared to steel bridges.