Sustainable Structures Unveiled: Navigating the Environmental Landscape of 3D Printing in Construction †

Abstract

This study addresses the imperative for sustainability in the construction industry, focusing on the environmental impact of a specific 3D printing method. Leveraging insights from an engineering-orientated 3D printing project, diverse scenarios are explored, and a cradle-to-gate life cycle assessment (LCA) is conducted using SimaPro 9.5.0 software. The study reveals the efficacy of a mix design with fly ash and furnace slag as a binder, demonstrating lower environmental impacts in various categories. However, the inclusion of silicate in geo-polymer concrete raises ecological concerns due to the high energy requirements for production. Additionally, substituting sand with sawdust results in a substantial reduction in CO2 emissions, highlighting the environmental benefits of incorporating by-product materials into building practices.