3D Printing in Sustainable Buildings: Systematic Review and Applications in the United Arab Emirates

Abstract

Three-dimensional printing (3DP) has been rapidly evolving to be one of the leading technology fields in the coming decades. However, as in the early years of new technologies, 3DP suffers from technical limitations and various implications. This study focuses on the applications of 3DP in the construction industry, emphasizing its environmental, financial, and social sustainability aspects. A systematic bibliographic analysis was carried out for the relevant publications which increased by 25-fold from 2014 to 2021. The 3D-printed construction projects in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are presented to demonstrate the early 3DP technology penetration into its booming construction sector. The UAE case is of particular interest from a sustainability perspective due to the environmental footprint of the ample construction activities in the country, combined with the ambitious strategic plans to achieve sustainable development goals. This critical analysis shows that, despite the limited literature, 3DP could potentially be a sustainable alternative with up to 49% less environmental footprint and 78% more cost-effectiveness compared to conventional construction techniques. As the social sustainability aspect was the least addressed, this study discusses relevant social impact indicators and systematic assessment criteria. It is evident that 3DP is already reshaping the future of the built environment, especially in cases where 3DP is advantageous, such as customized designs, quick project delivery, and sustainability-oriented constructions.

Bibliometric Analysis of Personalized 3D-Printed Concrete-Based Modules for Construction: Leveraging the Ordinatio Method

“…Sustainability Focus: An increasing emphasis on "sustainability" and "environmental impact" within construction research, aligning with the global shift toward sustainable practices and green construction [16,17].…”

Preserving Tradition through Evolution: Critical Review of 3D Printing for Saudi Arabia’s Cultural Identity

“…Buildings 2024, 14, x FOR PEER REVIEW 6 of 20 of this is a study conducted in 2016 on the possible use of a parametric Mashrabiya screen as a potential manufacturing method [40]. Other examples, again, include housing or office projects that did not reflect traditional local architecture, such as some offices in the UAE or houses in Russia [14,20]. For this reason, this research has highlighted only three emblematic case studies that can read the past and shape it innovatively without losing the collective memory of traditional architecture despite different locations and materials.…”

“…Incorporating local architecture within the walls and structures of 3D-printed buildings can amplify the culture of Saudi Arabia for citizens and tourists and help preserve local heritage for future generations [13]. But, if this cultural integration fails, it will lead to the loss of heritage, language, and cultural integrity [14]. Today, it is necessary to materialize its traditions and beliefs in the built environment, leading Saudi Arabia to preserve its heritage and pave the way for a more sustainable future through culturally lively and farsighted architectural innovation [15].…”

On the Possibility of Using 3D Printed Polymer Models for Modal Tests on Shaking Tables: Linking Material Properties Investigations, Field Experiments, Shaking Table Tests, and FEM Modeling

“…Some popular materials used in 3D printing are acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polylactic acid (PLA), nylon, poly(dodecano-12-lactam) (PA12), as well as concrete or metal [ 1 , 2 ]. The authors of scientific works on the use of 3D printing technology in civil engineering present the use of this method both during architectural design and at the stage of erecting buildings [ 3 , 4 , 5 ]. In particular, many works related to 3D printing of elements or entire buildings made of concrete and reinforced concrete should be noted here [ 6 , 7 , 8 ].…”