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Sustainable Structures Unveiled: Navigating the Environmental Landscape of 3D Printing in Construction

Year: 2024

Type: conference-paper

Abstract: This study addresses the imperative for sustainability in the construction industry, focusing on the environmental impact of a specific 3D printing method. Leveraging insights from an engineering-orientated 3D printing project, diverse scenarios are explored, and a cradle-to-gate life cycle assessment (LCA) is conducted using SimaPro 9.5.0 software. The study reveals the efficacy of a mix design with fly ash and furnace slag as a binder, demonstrating lower environmental impacts in various categories. However, the inclusion of silicate in geo-polymer concrete raises ecological concerns due to the high energy requirements for production. Additionally, substituting sand with sawdust results in a substantial reduction in CO2 emissions, highlighting the environmental benefits of incorporating by-product materials into building practices.

DOI: 10.3390/engproc2024076044

Authors: Arash Motalebi, Mohammad Abu Hasan Khondoker, Golam Kabir

Institution: University of Regina

Language: English

Topic: Innovations in Concrete and Construction Materials

Subfield: Building and Construction

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Responsible consumption and production, Climate action, Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Open Access status: gold

OpenAlex ID: W4403809735

FWCI: 1.107

Cites: 15

Cited by: 1

Related to: 10