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Concrete 3D printing is a promising manufacturing technology for producing geometrically complex structures efficiently and cost-effectively, by eliminating the need for formwork, reducing labor, and minimizing waste. This method has the potential to lower carbon emissions and resource use. However, it does not mitigate the carbon emissions associated with cement production. Nonetheless, utilizing waste materials in concrete 3D printing may reduce concrete carbon emissions and support recycling. This study investigates the use of two industrial waste materials–fly ash (FA) and ground waste glass (GWG)–as partial substitutes for ordinary Portland Cement (PC) in 3D printable cement paste. The chemical composition, particle size distribution, rheological properties, and flexural strength of the mixtures were analyzed. Results show that specimens containing waste materials achieved strengths comparable to traditional cement mixtures. The flexural strength reduction in 3D printed versus cast specimens varied across mixtures: control (66% reduction), FA20 (35%), FA10-GWG10 (35%), GWG10 (32%), FA10 (11%), and GWG20 (4%). Hence, incorporating waste materials in concrete 3D printing is recommended, as it maintains mechanical integrity while promoting recycling and upcycling of industrial waste.

Concrete 3D Printing (3DP) is a potential technology for increasing automation and introducing digital fabrication in the construction industry. Concrete 3D Printing provides a significant advantage over conventional or precast methods, such as the prospects of topologically optimized designs and integrating functional components within the structural volume of the building components. Many previous studies have compiled state-of-art studies in design parameters, mix properties, robotic technologies, and reinforcement strategies in 3D printed elements. However, there is no literature review on using concrete 3D Printing technology to fabricate structural load-carrying elements and systems. As concrete 3DP is shifting towards a large-scale construction technology paradigm, it is essential to understand the current studies on structural members and focus on future studies to improve further. A systematic literature review process is adopted in this study, where relevant publications are searched and analyzed to answer a set of well-defined research questions. The review is structured by categorizing the publications based on issues/problems associated with structural members and the recent technology solutions developed. It gives an overall view of the studies, which is still in its nascent stage, and the areas which require future focus on 3D printing technology in large-scale construction projects.

This article discusses the application of additive manufacturing (AM), also known as 3D printing, in the construction industry. The use of AM technologies in construction can reduce material waste, increase design flexibility, and contribute to resource efficiency. The article highlights various materials that have been tested for AM processes, such as concrete and rammed earth, and explores their potential for reducing environmental impact. The article also discusses the integration of computational design and digital fabrication methods in the construction process. Challenges and advancements in AM techniques, including data-driven models for quality control and the improvement of thermal insulation in AM-produced walls, are also addressed. The authors provide insights and recommendations for further research and development in this field. [Extracted from the article]