Research and Development for 3DCP (2024-11)¶

The construction industry has traditionally been slow to c adopt automation and digital technologies, relying heavily on manual labor and conventional building techniques. However, the advent of 3D concrete printing (3DCP) has begun to transform this landscape, offering novel opportunities for innovation in design, sustainability, and efficiency. 3DCP, an additive manufacturing technology, allows for the automated fabrication of complex structures by layering material according to a digital model. This method not only reduces labor costs and the potential for worksite accidents, but also facilitates the creation of intricate architectural forms that would be costly or difficult to achieve with traditional methods. The focus of interest in 3DCP is material innovation. While cement-based mortars are commonly used, new alternatives are emerging that offer lower environmental impact. For instance, Constructions-3D1 is developing Termix-3D, a clay mortar that has three times less carbon content than conventional mortar, with the cement partially being replaced by heated clay and slag from Hauts-de-France [1]. The Institute for Advanced Architecture of Catalonia (IAAC)2 is working on the impression of local earth that is mixed with additives and enzymes to ensure structural integrity and material elasticity (Fig. 2) [2], offering a more sustainable and locally-sourced solution for construction projects. In this article, we explore the current state of 3DCP technology through a series of case studies, ranging from the construction of the tallest 3D-printed building in the world to innovative applications in infrastructure, such as pedestrian bridges. These case studies not only showcase the potential of 3DCP to revolutionize construction but also highlight the technological challenges such as material performance and the integration of reinforcement. By examining these projects, we aim to provide insights into how 3DCP can redefine the future of construction and architecture.