Product Overview (Chapter) | COPAL Publishing Group

Dr Manjari Chakraborty | Dr Rizwan Kazmi

ISBN:

978-81-180058-1-0

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.67509/ceci5910

19. 3D Concrete Printing for Waste Management: Rheology and Fresh Properties

Circular Economy in the Construction Industry: Waste Management Practices

Hitesh Chaudhari | Omkar Mohite | Vishakha Sakhare

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.67509/ceci5928

2026 | 337 pp.

Three-dimensional (3D) printing technology in construction (3DPC) is revolutionizing traditional building practices by enabling automated, layer-by-layer fabrication of complex structures. This innovation promises significant advantages, including reduced labor, increased productivity, and minimized waste, aligning with global sustainability goals. However, the successful implementation and widespread adoption of 3DPC critically depend on the precise control of material properties, particularly in their fresh state. In order to objectively analyze the impact of rheological qualities, fresh- state features, and the role of admixtures and additives on the printability and performance of 3DPC, this review paper synthesizes data from recent research. It highlights the inherent conflicts in material requirements, such as the need for both high flowability during extrusion and rapid stiffening for structural stability, emphasizing the paramount importance of thixotropy. It describes the impact of rheological properties and admixture features on printability aspects, namely printability, flowability, and buildability. The impact of various material components, such as recycled brick powder (RBP), recycled fine aggregates (RFA), supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) like silica fume (SF) and limestone-calcined clay (LC3), and chemical admixtures (superplasticizers, viscosity-modifying agents, nanoclay), on fresh-state properties is demonstrated through comparisons across multiple studies. Qualitative and quantitative comparisons for key fresh-state properties like slump, viscosity, setting time, and buildability are made. The review identifies current research limitations, including the lack of standardized test methods. Recommendations for future research focus on developing advanced multi-functional admixtures, optimizing recycled material integration, and establishing robust testing protocols to facilitate the sustainable and widespread application of 3DPC in the built environment.

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