State of the Art of Mechanical Properties of 3D Printed Concrete (2024-10)¶

The utilization of 3D printing in civil engineering has expedited the progression of intelligent construction and building industrialization. A plethora of studies in recent years have contributed to the advancement of 3D printed concrete technology. In contrast to traditional concrete construction techniques, 3D printed concrete technology offers additional benefits such as cost-effectiveness, reduced environmental impact, and a simpler process. The mechanical properties of 3D printed concrete are crucial for its application in building structures. This article provides a comprehensive review of the latest research endeavors in 3D printed concrete, covering both research and application. Firstly, this manuscript examines the size parameters and fabrication methods of the specimens utilized for mechanical performance tests. Subsequently, the mechanical properties of 3D printed concrete are described, and the effect of time-gap as a significant parameter on the performance of 3D printed concrete is discussed. Finally, the existing 3D printed concrete reinforcement technologies and their applications are summarized and categorized based on fibers and steel bars. Moreover, the key technical obstacles in the application of 3D printed concrete in building structures are identified. The ultimate objective of this article is to chart a course for the development and implementation of 3D printed concrete in building structures.