hero about

Why 3D printing materials are paving the way to a more efficient built environment

9th Sep 2024

According to research carried out by Mordor Intelligence, the UK 3D printing market in 2024 is valued at $0.66 billion and is projected to reach $1.15 billion by 2029. The rising adoption of 3D printing by the construction sector has been identified as a major trend.

Construction 3D printing uses various materials, most commonly a mixture of concrete, polymers, fibre and sand, but also plastics, resins, metals amongst others to create thin layers that are continually added on top of each other to create a structure. The technique offers an efficient and cost-effective way of creating complex and customised buildings.

3D printing is also fast becoming intrinsic to pre-construction planning due to its capacity for creating multiple prototypes in a short period of time.

hero about alt
The benefits of 3D printing to the construction industry…

Faster building
Project timelines are accelerated when using 3D printing technology. It can produce structure parts within hours, on-site. Automated printers can be programmed to work through the night and sometimes in adverse weather conditions which minimises project downtime.

Waste reduction
Up to 60% less waste is generated on construction sites that use 3D printing. This is because the process only uses the materials it needs for each job. This is both cost-effective and environmentally sound practice.

Cost-effectiveness
By replacing the need for multiple manufacturing machines, 3D printing directly impacts capital expenditure, alongside the costs saved in reduced timescales and waste.

Innovative design
3D printing facilitates innovation and custom requirements for more complex shapes and designs. Using 3D printing software, architects can design printable buildings that would take far longer and more money to achieve using traditional methods.

An article in The Engineer states the ability of 3D printing to demonstrate alternative methods of design and construction ‘is proving to be a major asset for architectural practices when advocating new approaches to building companies’.

Fewer errors
Human error is minimised when using 3D printing technology which prevents accidents and enhances quality control.

A research paper published by Aston University supports this, claiming that implementing 3D printing technology to the production line of building components can improve the traditional process and reduce errors: ‘These improvements increase the conversion rate of materials by reducing errors and repetitive operations during the production process.’

‘These improvements increase the conversion rate of materials by reducing errors and repetitive operations during the production process.’

UK adoption of 3D printing in the built environment

Despite the increasing use of 3D printing materials in construction for bespoke components and rapid prototyping, wider adoption is still proving to be challenging. A lack of clarity around regulation and the complexities of integrating 3D printing materials into traditional construction projects are just two areas that need to be addressed.

Yet, it is still widely acknowledged that 3D printing materials are transforming the industry. The Charter Street project in Accrington, Lancashire will create the UK’s first 3D printed houses. The 46 high quality, affordable net zero carbon ready homes are being built using 3D concrete. Soaring house prices and sustainability commitments are likely to generate interest in getting similar projects underway.

The rapid prototyping element of 3D printing is expected to influence more UK adoption. By streamlining the prototyping process, 3D printing allows for the construction of multiple prototypes in a short space of time. Prototypes help with the assessment of feasibility and structural integrity, and ensure accurate measurements for costings and timelines.

Challenges for 3D printing materials in construction

  • The cost of purchasing and running 3D printing machinery can be a barrier for designers and contractors.
  • There is a need for more skilled labour to operate and maintain 3D printers.
  • Ensuring the structural integrity of large-scale 3D printing applications can be difficult to achieve, particularly without established industry standards in place.
  • The currently small range of materials that can be used for 3D printing can limit construction designs.
  • Limits to both the size of the printer and the required structure can create problems for large-scale projects.
In summary...

Centre for Construction Best Practice (CCBP) Membership

The CCBP pioneers the exploration and adoption of new, sustainable materials, enhancing construction efficiency and environmental responsibility. Our members are focused on discovering materials that offer better performance, longevity, and reduced environmental impact, revolutionising construction practices.

Are you ready to join the CCBP to share and learn from groundbreaking research and help us drive change? Get in touch for more information about our membership benefits.

References

  1. Mordor Intelligence – UK 3D Printing Industry Size & Share Analysis
  2. Cemex Ventures – How 3D printing in the construction industry works
  3. The Engineer – Comment: 3D printing can deliver better buildings
  4. Aston University – Critical Success Factors for Implementing 3D Printing Technology in Construction Projects
  5. Building for Humanity – Charter Street, Accrington, Lancashire
Login