Forest of Dean-based advanced engineering materials group Versarien has launched its own 3D printed lifestyle pods.

The 'Lunar' lifestyle pods use the firm's graphene-enhanced cement admixture.

Versarien took delivery of a 3D printing robot three weeks ago and the firm is using its concrete product made with Cementene graphene-enhanced cement.

Speaking to Punchline at the company's production facilities at the Longhope Business Park, Neill Ricketts, CEO of Versarien, said: "We've been doing 3D printing of plastic things for a long time but what we've got here is 3D printing of concrete."

The pod walls take about 60 minutes to print and then twelve hours to then be able move them. A pod carried on the back of a lorry and installed in about four hours.

They cost about £30,000 each and provide a flexible space for things like offices, sheds or garages.

Neill said: "Because it is a modular design, it won't be long before we can build much bigger buildings.

"We want to be the company that eventually all the 3D printers are using."

The pod's wall design shows the level of detail, flexibility and precision that can be achieved with 3D-concrete printing. Versarien's lead designer has encompassed the concept of light and access to the outdoors by incorporating full height glazed doors and windows into the pod's design.

The launch of Lunar comes at a time where sustainability in construction is under close scrutiny.

The graphene concrete works on the principle that it requires fewer materials to achieve the same structural performance as ordinary concrete, enabling faster completion of buildings, reducing costs and the carbon footprint.

Neill Ricketts, said: "This launch represents the first application of a technology that has the potential to change the way the world views construction and property renovation.

"Lunar doesn't just provide convenience for homeowners; it is also a beacon of hope for those who don't have access to basic amenities like shelter. Our 3D printed concrete can build pods for those suffering hardship, whilst creating a circular economy for houses, giving individuals in more developed countries the opportunity to chop and change and 'lift and shift' their homes."