The University of Maine unveiled its game-changing BioHome3D in November 2022, marking a significant milestone in 3D-printed housing technology. WBRC assisted in the early development and interior design of this remarkable project. The world’s first 3D-printed home (including floors, walls, and roof) was created from bio-based materials by the University of Maine Advanced Structures and Composite Center in collaboration with Oak Ridge National Laboratory. BioHome3D was developed with funding from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Hub and Spoke program. Partners included MaineHousing and the Maine Technology Institute.
Because it is made of wood fibers and bio-resins, BioHome3D is fully recyclable. To maximize energy-efficiency, the home is highly insulated with 100% wood insulation and customizable R-values. Construction waste was nearly eliminated due to the precision of the printing process. The building was printed in four modules and assembled in half a day on a site near UMaine’s Advanced Structures and Composites Center.
The project has the potential to revolutionize U.S. home production by greatly shortening construction time and minimizing waste. This 600 SF prototype was manufactured at UMaine using one of the world’s largest polymer 3D printers, which was installed with assistance from the WBRC team. BioHome3D has proven to be remarkably resilient through Maine winters.