Applicability and integration of concrete additive manufacturing in construction industry: A case study

Abstract

The spread of additive manufacturing in recent years has broadened the sector of applications, namely in the construction field. This technology enables new functionalities and opportunities to be considered for the construction industry. Indeed, 3D printing processes can directly or indirectly affect the concrete material. Besides the printing processes for concrete structures, there are other indirect uses of 3D concrete printing, such as the manufacture of molds and formwork. However, its integration raises new challenges. This paper is first devoted to the state-of-the-art regarding the use of additive manufacturing in construction through a bibliographical study and an overview of various experiences in different countries. Secondly, the opportunities of such technologies for the construction sector will be discussed. Then, the issues and challenges related to the applicability and integration of concrete additive manufacturing will be highlighted. Finally, a diagnosis of the applicability and integration of concrete additive manufacturing has been made by analyzing the results of a survey of Moroccan professionals. The objective is to raise and identify key factors for successful integration.