A Comprehensive Review of 3D Printing in Construction (2026-01)¶

The rapid evolution of 3D printing technologies is redefining the construction industry by enabling faster, cost-effective, and sustainable building solutions. This paper presents a comprehensive review of additive manufacturing techniques applied in construction, emphasizing material extrusion, powder bed fusion, and hybrid systems. It discusses advancements in 3D printable materials such as cementitious composites, geopolymer concretes, fiber-reinforced mixes, and soil-based alternatives, highlighting their rheological behavior, printability, and structural performance. The study also examines the integration of digital workflows—comprising parametric modelling, BIM, and slicing software—that streamline design-to-production processes. Real-world case studies from India, including the 3D-printed G + 1 villa by Godrej Properties and Tvasta Engineering, L&T’s reinforced concrete building, and the Bengaluru 3D-printed post office, demonstrate the practical viability and scalability of this technology. The review identifies current challenges in large-scale implementation, cost optimization, and workforce training while emphasizing future directions involving AI-driven automation, sustainable materials, and multi-material printing. The findings underscore 3D printing’s transformative potential in achieving resilient, eco-efficient, and customized construction.