A robot applies a layer of concrete to a 3D-printed wall.

3D Concrete Printing

Design Freedom, Construction Efficiency, and Sustainable Performance

3D printing in construction is an upcoming new way of building that through robotic automation allows for the reduction of material usage, the reduction of waste, the increase of process efficiency and safety, while ensuring enhanced design freedom.

3D printing is part of Heidelberg Materials’ sustainability strategy to create innovative products and processes to reduce and reuse materials and build a more sustainable future. Further, our 3D printing products are fully recyclable.

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3D printing in construction

How does 3D concrete printing work and what is it used for? 

3D printing is a methodology that requires the sequential layering of material, starting from a digital model, in order to create tridimensional shapes. The specific advantage is that it allows the direct transfer from a 3D digital model to the final building without intermediate steps of 2D drawings/plans (Design to Print – DTP). In construction, the 3D printing technology is mainly used to build:

  • Multi-floor buildings
  • Structural components or other pre-fabricated elements (e.g. foundation pads, walls, connections, utility service cabins, tiny houses, bus stops, flood protection barriers, etc.) 
  • Urban furniture or other decorative objects (benches, vases, decorative panels, etc.)
Modern two-story house with curved design and textured exterior, set on manicured lawn under blue sky

3D printed house in Beckum, Germany

The benefits to you

  • Cement content in our products is very low
  • Our 3D printing products are 100% recyclable, like concrete
  • Our formulations contain recycled materials and by-products, thereby reducing the use of virgin raw materials
  • 3D printing allows for reduction of material use (proven up to 75% depending on the design)
  • Traditional waste associated to traditional concrete construction are eliminated through 3D printing (no-formwork, no process waste, automation ensures accurate application)
Quicker construction 
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Simultaneous construction phases resulting in potential time saving of 60-70%

Versatile, reliable and strong
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Performance tailored to achieve strength of structural concrete, robust in different environments and available locally

Design freedom
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High degree of freedom in designing construction elements

Reduction of labor cost…
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..., but increase in talent attractiveness; digital job sites highly attractive for younger generations

Improved safety
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Fewer tools needed on site, reduced noise and dust

Local support, global expertise
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A global network of experts, available locally

Further information on 3D concrete printing

You can find further information on the topic of 3D concrete printing on the following local pages:

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