
3D construction printing shaping the future of the construction industry

3D construction printing shaping the future of the construction industry
3D printing in construction has primarily been associated with housing, like China's WinSun villa and Icon's Texas project. However, as the technology advances, its applications are diversifying. Henrik Lund-Nielsen notes that while it's used for walls and foundations, it can cover only a portion of a structure. This limitation leads experts to explore 3D printing's potential in creating bridges, tunnels, wind turbine bases, tanks, and industrial structures.
3D printing's benefits include: speed, reduced reliance on skilled labour, economical concrete usage, lower waste, and embodied carbon. However, its application is still limited in the sector. Among the barriers, there are: technological challenges, regulatory hurdles, and traditional mindsets. However, industry insiders are optimistic about 3D printing's growth.