Chapter 9 - Comparative analysis of concrete 3D printing and conventional construction technique for housing

Abstract

Concrete 3D printing is an emerging technology that prints structures rapidly, reducing the labor, and wastage of material. The use of 3D printing in building construction in India is a less explored area. The objective of this paper is to assess and compare the cost and time benefits of concrete 3D printing and conventional construction technology in housing. A conventional three bedrooms house is considered for comparing the time required and the cost entailed. The findings show that when the house is constructed with concrete 3D printing, there is a reduction in cost by 50%. The same house, when built with conventional materials, costs double. The concrete 3D printing house takes 10 days less time to be completed as against the use of conventional materials. This study provides insights into parameters that affect the cost of concrete 3D printing and also compares concrete 3D printing with other technologies. This study will be useful for architects and designers to understand the design implications to reduce cost and time.