Exploring opportunities and limitations of 3D concrete printing technology in New Zealand

Type of content
Conference Contributions - Other
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Date
2019
Authors
Loporcaro G
Zhao A
Abstract

3D printing, formally known as additive manufacturing (AM), is a process by which physical objects are created by depositing materials in layers based on a digital model with no needs of tooling and little human intervention. 3D concrete printing is an alternative construction method which has the potential to revolutionize the construction industry globally, including New Zealand, with significant benefits such as reduced manpower; greater geometric freedom; reduced material consumption and wastage; improved accuracy and safety on-site. The potential benefits of this technology could affect housing affordability and address current needs in the New Zealand housing market. This paper analyses potential opportunities and challenges of 3D concrete printing for New Zealand’s housing market. First, a comprehensive review of state-of-art 3D concrete printing technologies is presented. Then, a case study is used to show the benefits and limitations of 3D printing technique in the New Zealand context. Preliminary results suggest that if the full potential of 3D printing technology can be realised, the productivity of the construction industry and the affordability of houses in New Zealand can be improved. Finally, the paper suggests the future research required to make 3D printing a feasible construction technique in New Zealand.

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Citation
Loporcaro G, Zhao A (2019). Exploring opportunities and limitations of 3D concrete printing technology in New Zealand. Dunedin, New Zealand: Concrete NZ Conference. 10/10/2019-12/10/2020.
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ANZSRC fields of research
Fields of Research::40 - Engineering::4014 - Manufacturing engineering::401401 - Additive manufacturing
Fields of Research::40 - Engineering::4005 - Civil engineering::400504 - Construction engineering
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