WASProject Plans to 3D Print Houses in 3rd World Countries using Native Soil

[Eddie]

We hear about a lot innovative stories within the 3D printing space. However, it's not that often that you hear of groups of people that are trying to really make a difference. WASP is a company that develops 3D printers, and with that money, they use to to further the development of their larger more advanced 3D printers. They have created a 3D printer that is very large, and capable of printing using clay made from soil, water, and oil. They have plans to use this machine to print structures and houses in developing nations, by using native soil, and mixing it to make a clay. Read more about this incredible story at http://3dprint.com/8756/wasproject-3d-printed-homes/

[Ginen]

Durability of this 3D printed houses would be a challenge as the soil in all the regions varies- so it is just going to construct MUD houses, not solving the housing scenario of 3rd world.

Where as acceptablity from the local would be a challange. most of the third world is facing problem of high population and unemployment- specially of unskilled nature.

Future looks great with 3D/4D tech, but will be accepted in market as a sudden change???

[Eddie]

For those of you that have been following this project, there is an update. WASP will be showing off one of these huge 3D printers capable of printing clay structures like houses at the Rome MakerFaire. Read more at: http://3dprint.com/17179/wasp-3d-printed-houses/

[Feign]

Third-world natives have been pretty good at making mud-huts manually for an awfully long time now. What they need is something that can make them an underground sewer system or other means of keeping their sewage separate from their irrigation.

One of those things that we take for granted that is really a lot more important than quality housing.

[repkid]

I agree completely, a cheap toilet system is way more important. Don't get me wrong I like the idea but this won't be feasible because it's not necessary and thus won't be used.

[curious aardvark]

neat idea - third world peoples seem to lose more and more skills year on year. As they get used to being reliant on handouts they just don't grow or build.
The shanty slums that millions of refugees currently live in is testament to this.

BUT, in order for something like this to be of any use in a middle of nowhere refugee camp it has to be entirely solar powered.