Advancements in 3D printing of cementitious materials: A review of mineral additives, properties, and systematic developments

Abstract

3D printing technology revolutionizes construction by creating custom building components with increased efficiency and reduced waste. This paper reviews advancements in the 3D printing of cementitious materials, focusing on integrating mineral additives (MAs) like metakaolin, micro-silica, slag, and fly ash to address environmental and economic challenges linked with high-Portland cement content in 3D concrete printing (3DCP). MAs enhance the pumpability, printability, and buildability of 3DCP while reducing its environmental impact. The review emphasizes optimizing cement mixtures, including alkali-activated materials, to enhance sustainability and performance. It discusses the mixture design's importance, balancing mechanical properties and environmental impacts, and examines MAs' influence on rheological properties, mechanical performance, and 3DCP durability, including layer bond strength. The paper also discusses global 3D printing technology adoption in construction and challenges in additive manufacturing implementation. By analyzing printing parameters, mixture proportions, and materials' effects on long-term performance, this review highlights 3D printing's potential for economically viable and eco-friendly structural elements. It aims to guide future advancements in 3D printable cementitious materials, meeting modern construction demands while addressing traditional concrete production's environmental challenges.