On Site Deployment of 3D Construction Printing for the Building a Two-story Building in China

In the evolving field of construction technology, 3D construction printing (3DCP) has advanced from small-scale experiments to large-scale projects, involving complex steps and challenges. This paper summarizes the technologies used in the first on-site 3D printing of a two-story office building in China, covering 230 m² with a total printing time of 49.5 hours. It highlights the development of a large-scale, modular, and high-precision 3D printer capable of performing various construction tasks. A specialized additive, crucial for creating a suitable printable mix was developed, demonstrating excellent performance characteristics. The research addressed the challenge of integrating vertical reinforcements in 3D-printed structures, particularly at intersections with the foundation. Advanced material technology and automatic spray curing methods were integrated to mitigate shrinkage and cracking issues in Portland cement-based printing materials. The successful printing of the two-story office building confirms the feasibility of digital construction technology in 3D concrete printing, marking a significant advancement in construction methodologies.