Advancing Sustainable Housing: The Impact of 3d Printing Technologies

Abstract

Purpose: 3D printing is a new technology that has the potential to transform the building industry, notably in the field of sustainable housing. This study investigates the role of 3D printing in sustainable housing by analysing the technology’s current state of art and its implementation in the building sector, resulting in a systematic review.

Design/Methodology/Approach: The study attempts to investigate the different considerations a contractor should take before starting 3D printing. These considerations include technique, material, robotic machinery, structure type, and modelling software. Initially, a selection procedure consisting of three steps was employed to choose appropriate literature based on predetermined criteria. Next, a bibliometric examination was carried out to recognise the primary developments in safety management aided by automation. Subsequently, there is a discussion about the safety implementations of diverse domains, including construction robotics, virtual reality, building information modelling tools, and artificial intelligence.

Findings: After investigating multiple options for each of the considerations, the paper provides the best choice for each based on intensive research. The Inkjet technique appeared to be the best technique that could be used and modified cementitious powder (CP) will be the optimum material to be used with it. Moreover, the Articulated Robot System was found to be the most advantageous system among other robotic machinery. When compared to high-rise buildings, low-rise structures were proven to be the most suitable type of structure for 3D printing applications. Amongst multiple software, such as AutoCAD and Rhino, Revit was chosen as the most convenient and practical software to be used for 3D printing applications.

Originality/Value of paper: This paper compared the various options contractors are faced with when adopting 3D printing. Based on an intensive review, a suggestion was made to facilitate the adaptation process for the contractors. One option from each category was chosen, and these options combined could be used by contactors aiming to get into the 3D printing field.

Research Limitations: This article acknowledges the emerging field of 3D printing in construction and highlights several limitations. These include the lack of consideration for recent technology advancements, limited availability of data, and the global applicability of the research. Moreover, the paper falls short in providing a comprehensive analysis of the costs of 3D printing technology in the construction industry. Ethical and environmental aspects are not adequately addressed. While the paper suggests specific combinations of methods, supplies, equipment, structures, and software for implementing 3D printing, it is important for businesses to carefully evaluate the suitability of these recommendations to their unique needs and circumstances before integrating the technology into their construction processes.