Rotterdam will have a 3D printed pedestrian bridge

In Rotterdam, Netherlands, the first 3D printed pedestrian bridge is being built, and should be installed before the end of 2020. Currently, it’s a wooden footbridge that exists in the Kralingse Bos, soon to be replaced by a lightweight 3D printed bridge made from fiber-reinforced plastic. Compared to the conventionally manufactured bridge, this one will last twice as long and will also be recyclable at the end of its life. This is not the first time that additive manufacturing technologies are used to make a bridge. Other projects have revolved around concrete 3D printing, whereas this one will use composite materials.

Back in September, we told you about the collaboration between Royal HaskoningDHV, CEAD and DSM, to design a bridge prototype that was lightweight and sustainable and also made from glass-fiber reinforced plastic. This new bridge, which is no longer just a prototype, is being developed by Royal HaskoningDHV, DSM and the Municipality of Rotterdam to accelerate the development of a new generation of bridges in the city of Rotterdam. Rotterdam is a dynamic, innovative city that is driving towards circularity.

Therefore, the main aim of this project is to create a bridge that is more sustainable. In other words, it will have a longer lifetime expectancy paired with lower life cycle costs compared to steel bridges. The current deck bridge, which has been located in the native garden in the Kralingse Bos since 1975 is made of wood and is approaching the end of its life. Therefore, it is the perfect time for a replacement. With the replacement of this bridge by a 3D printed lightweight copy made from a plastic composite, the three partners are collaborating to promote a circular economy.