3D Printing with Concrete (2018-02)¶

The development of digital concrete printing processes for the production of concrete components directly on the construction site or in the precast plant is a decisive step on the way to introducing the Industry 4.0 concept into the construction industry, namely from the already existing digital construction planning (CAD, BIM) to digital production. The technological and economic potential of digital concrete construction has now been recognized by many construction stakeholders and researchers; the volume of innovation activities in this field is increasing by the month. This article provides an overview of these developments and critically evaluates them. After presenting alternative approaches to digital production, the authors take a closer look at extrusion-based processes. These processes are currently the most commonly used for 3D printing with concrete and also have the greatest potential in terms of transferring the new technology into construction practice. However, there are numerous challenges in terms of material development and testing, dimensioning, machine technology and much more. These challenges are also addressed in this article and possible solutions are outlined.