Additive Manufacturing in the Geopolymer Construction Technology: A Review

Abstract

This research paper presents a scientific attempt of a comprehensive systematic review of three-dimensional printing in geopolymer construction technology. The concept of 3D printing is an automated manufacturing process, layer- by- layer command, with computer-aided design model to create physical objects, acquiring swift development for the last few decades. An expansion of novel Geopolymer technology has been adopted in the construction and infrastructure industries for decades. The critical challenges of construction and infrastructure industries, such as the need for architectural, holistic, and rational designs, can be dealt with 3D printing techniques. Plentiful advantages of this emerging novel technology include a reduced amount of cost, ease of construction, a lesser amount of time, freedom of design, less wastage, aptitude to create complex structures, decrease in labor requirements, etc. Accordingly, The paper discusses common 3D techniques, such as Fused Deposition Modelling, Selective Laser Sintering, Stereolithography, 3D plotting, Laminated Object Manufacturing technique, Direct Energy deposition technique or laser engineered net shaping, Powder Bed Fusion and Inject Head 3D printing and direct deposition method. Overall, this study provides an introduction of 3D printing automation and robotics processes in a geopolymer construction industry. Ultimately, the paper emphasizes to motivate researchers towards future studies about 3D printing.