3D-Printed Forms Could Revolutionize Nuclear Construction in ASEAN

A New Era in Nuclear Construction: 3D-Printed Composite Forms Accelerate Project Timelines \\[8pt] In a groundbreaking development, researchers and industry partners have created 3D-printed composite forms that could significantly cut the construction time for advanced nuclear facilities. This innovation, developed by Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) and its collaborators, has the potential to transform the way nuclear infrastructure is built, reducing the time needed to produce specialized molds from six months to just two weeks. The project, titled 'Advanced Composite Formwork for Accelerated High-Precision Nuclear Infrastructure,' has already received the 2026 CAMX Combined Strength Award, recognizing its combined expertise in materials, additive manufacturing, machining, and construction. \\[8pt] ## What This Means for ASEAN Factories \\[8pt] For factories in Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, and Malaysia, this technology could be a game-changer. These countries are increasingly looking to diversify their energy sources, and nuclear power is becoming a more viable option. The ability to construct nuclear facilities faster and with greater precision can accelerate the deployment of these projects, providing a reliable and sustainable energy source. Additionally, the use of 3D-printed forms can help reduce costs and improve the overall efficiency of the construction process. \\[8pt] ## The Technology Behind the Innovation \\[8pt] The ORNL-led team developed a digital manufacturing process that combines large-scale 3D printing and precision machining to produce reusable forms for shaping concrete in nuclear construction. These fiber-reinforced composite forms can be designed, 3D printed, and delivered in about two weeks, compared to the six months required for conventional steel molds. The forms achieve a precision of one-sixteenth of an inch on critical surfaces while withstanding the pressure exerted by the concrete they shape. This level of precision is crucial for nuclear facilities, which require specialized molds capable of producing complex geometries with tight dimensional tolerances. \\[8pt] ## Demonstrations and Collaborations \\[8pt] The technology has been demonstrated through a cast-in-place concrete shielding structure known as the Janus demonstration at Kairos Power’s Oak Ridge campus. Each section used in the demonstration measures 10 feet by 10 feet, with three sections stacked to create a column. The forms are precursors to those Kairos Power and construction partner Barnard Construction plan to use for portions of the Hermes reactor facility. Barnard provided valuable feedback during implementation, allowing the team to make design changes based on construction requirements and improve how the forms could be deployed on site. \\[8pt] ## Future Implications for ASEAN \\[8pt] The immediate benefit of this technology is the faster production of specialized concrete forms, which can help remove a significant bottleneck in building complex nuclear infrastructure. While nuclear projects still face engineering, safety, regulatory, and other construction requirements, reducing formwork lead times can contribute to a more efficient and cost-effective construction process. For ASEAN countries, this means that future nuclear projects can be completed more quickly, providing a reliable and sustainable energy source to support industrial growth and economic development. \\[8pt] **Takeaway for Factory Buyers:** As ASEAN countries continue to explore nuclear energy, the use of 3D-printed composite forms can significantly reduce construction times and costs, making it a valuable investment for factory buyers looking to ensure a stable and sustainable energy supply.