Three-Dimensional Concrete Printing in the Construction Industry: Landscape, Challenges, and Future Opportunities

Abstract

The adoption of three-dimensional concrete printing (3DCP) has been transforming the construction industry, offering unique design flexibility and efficiency that conventional methods struggle to match. Despite its potential, a critical lack of research exists for nonmaterial categories, including management, cost estimation, sustainability, and the absence of standardized guidelines. This study presents a comprehensive review of 3DCP in the context of digital construction, applying a methodological framework to assess the current state of research. A total of 76 review papers were selected and analyzed across seven thematic categories: general technology overview (GTO), materials and mechanical properties (MMP), reinforcement and structural performance (RSP), printers and printing processes (PPP), sustainability (SUS), application and case studies (ACS), and guidelines, standards, and codes (GSC). The review studies showed a significant concentration on MMP (38%) and GTO (29%), but other essential categories, such as SUS (7%) and GSC (0%), received minimal to no attention. Taking this further, a research guidance matrix consisting of four analytical dimensions, namely, current landscape, research objectives, challenges and gaps, and measurable outcomes, was developed based on a comprehensive mapping review of 1,627 peer-reviewed articles. The analysis revealed that MMP (89.67%) and PPP (88.69%) are the most dominant topics in the literature. Based on the findings, targeted future research directions are proposed for each category. In conclusion, this study bridges existing knowledge gaps and provides actionable recommendations for researchers and practitioners to further enhance 3DCP as a viable, sustainable, and scalable construction method capable of transforming the construction industry.