earthprinting aims to develop a sustainable, high-performance, and cost-efficient construction method that enables the large-scale use of clay as a building material in both the Swiss and international markets. To achieve this, a fully digitalized planning and production chain is being implemented, based on large-scale 3D printing technology. Customized modules made of unfired clay are prefabricated in the factory and later assembled on-site into self-supporting and load-bearing elements.

Brauchli Ziegelei is currently undergoing a phase of transformation, moving away from its traditional business model of brick production towards the development of consistently sustainable and environmentally friendly products. As part of this strategic re-orientation, the company has initiated the establishment and development of a digitally integrated industrial production chain for 3D printing with clay. With earthprinting, the first product line of 3D-printed clay construction is being developed for use as wall elements, wall claddings, and special components. The envisioned business model is based on a continuous value chain – from raw material sourcing and preparation, through engineering and planning services, production, and ultimately the recycling of the components.

The present research project establishes the foundations for the structural application of 3D-printed clay construction. This includes the development of constructive details as well as the necessary digital design, calculation, and planning tools tailored to the specific material and manufacturing process. In addition, the project will scientifically investigate the practical structural, static, and building physics aspects of unfired, 3D-printed clay modular construction. Overall, this work creates the conditions for the widespread adoption of 3D-printed clay as a building material – enabling a construction method with minimal environmental impact and CO2 emissions, while offering excellent building physics performance.