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Rapid construction with an energy-efficient approach is a major challenge in the present construction industry. Cement, a carbon-intensive material, is mainly used in the construction industry and hence increases the sector's carbon footprint on the environment. The current review focuses on the study of 3D concrete printing (3DCP), in which cement is partially replaced with industrial byproducts such as ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS), fly ash, and silica fume. Walling material is primarily targeted in 3DCP. There is a need to include energy efficiency to achieve a thermally comfortable environment. The life cycle assessment (LCA) of concrete is studied to discover the potential conflicts affecting the environment. The sand-to-binder ratio is pivotal in determining the performance of concrete. The content of the supplements is decided based on this factor. The rheological, physical, and mechanical properties of 3DCP are studied further and analysed. GGBS demonstrates better performance in the compressive and flexure strength of concrete. The usage of fly ash and silica fume has reduced the thermal conductivity of the material, whereas GGBS has increased it. An LCA study shows that 3DCP can be made sustainable with the use of these supplementary cementitious materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The construction world has changed day by day and is becoming more digitalized by introducing new technologies. Three-dimensional concrete printing (3DCP) is one such technology that has automated building process along with several benefits such as reduced material waste, reduced human hazard, and time savings. Traditionally, this technique utilizes cement to construct numerous structures, resulting in a significant carbon footprint and negative environmental impact. There is a need to find alternate solutions to reduce cement consumption. Alkali activation technology has replaced cement completely. The scope of development of alkali-activated 3D printable concrete utilizing agro-industrial byproducts is presented in this study. A review of the fresh and hardened properties of alkali-activated 3D printable concrete was the primary objective. The change in properties of 3D concrete mixes with the variation of additives that influence the ultimate strength parameters is presented. This study explores the curing conditions and in-depth behavior of uses of 3DCP in the construction industry. The environmental benefits over conventional concreting technology are presented. As per previous studies, the optimum mix composition per cubic meter concrete is 600–700 kg/m3 of binder content, 450 kg/m3 of alkali activator solution, and 600–800 kg/m3 of fine aggregate content. This study contributes to the making of 3D printable alkali-activated concrete. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]