DARPA’s Strategic Technology Office is seeking innovative approaches to enable underwater three-dimensional concrete printing (3DCP) through the development, refinement and optimisation of printable formulations and fabrication hardware.
Trenton’s objectives include the development of methodologies and chemistries to support the in situ manufacturing of concrete structures underwater in support of various use cases, including coastal infrastructure reinforcement and bridge repair.
The program will require the development and optimization of printing formulations and fabrication methods. The formulation includes all aspects related to the development and optimization of underwater 3DCP material chemistries. Performers are expected to leverage and refine existing formulations to the maximum extent possible and must be mindful of avoiding potentially toxic materials while developing formulations. Fabrication for Trenton will include aspects of hardware development that enable 3DCP from a land-based system into water at the bench scale. Performers are expected to leverage and adapt existing land-based 3DCP for printing underwater.
Up to USD$1.4M is available for a 2-phase project of up to 12 months:
Phase 1A (base) – 6 months – initial formulation development and 3DCP hardware adaptation
Phase 1B (option) – 6 months – refining formulation and hardware.
Down selection is expected to occur at the end of Phase 1A.
Abstracts are due 5 November 2024. Selected abstracts will be invited to give an oral presentation.
A proposers day will be held 10 October 2024. Register here by 4 October.
Document
Program Solicitation – Trenton: DARPA-PS-24-21
