Abstract
The preparation of laboratory samples of cement matrices, required for the immobilization of solid radioactive waste, is a labor-intensive process. A standard laboratory sample should be in the form of a cube with a 100 mm side, featuring well-defined and smooth surfaces, and must comply with GOST R 71913-2024 requirements. Accordingly, special molds are needed for casting cement-based mixtures. This work demonstrates the potential of additive technologies, in particular, layer-by-layer forming methods (3D printing with plastic), for creating such molds. The design and optimization of the mold were carried out using 3D modeling software, and prototypes of both monolithic and separable molds were fabricated, which were then used to produce test samples of cement matrices. The prototypes were 3D printed on a modern Bambu Lab printer using the most common and widely used plastic – polylactic acid (PLA). Based on the results of the study, the design of a reusable separable mold was tested, enabling the production of cement matrix samples of the required size and shape.