Current challenges and future potential of 3D concrete printing

Abstract

The emphases on reduction of construction time and production costs have profound influences on the construction process that has led us to investigate a new paradigm, known as 3D concrete printing. This technique can fabricate complex 3D building components directly from computer aided design models without any tooling and human intervention. However, compatibility of the presently available materials has impeded its widespread application and commercialization. This paper introduces an overview of concrete printing processes and its noteworthy potentials in the building and construction sector. After sketching the potential, a novel fly ash based inorganic geopolymer is printed and characterized in terms of fresh and hardened properties with an aim for sustainable built environment.