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International Journal of Engineering & Technology Sciences
IJETS 2025, 8 pages - Article ID: IJETS-2502182112936
From Innovation To Reality: How 3D Printing is Changing Construction
Authors
Natali Elizabeth Lascano Robalino a,
Edwin Iván Soledispa Pereira b,
Jorge Oswaldo Crespo Bravo c,
Marcelo Fabian Oleas Escalante d,
Jimenez Merchan Carmita Guadalupe d,
Angel Mauricio Espinoza Cotera d,
Said Marcos Chara Moreira e,
Carlos Emmanuel Rivas Arteaga d,
Kamila Sayed Hoppe Chara d
Faculty of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Information Systems Department, Central University of Ecuador, Av. Universitaria, Quito 170521, Ecuador
Faculty of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Civil Engineering Department, Central University of Ecuador, Av. Universitaria, Quito 170521, Ecuador
Faculty of Engineering, Industrial and Architecture, School of Civil Engineering, Laica Eloy Alfaro de Manabi University, Manta, Ecuador
TERMINAL PORTUARIO DE MANTA, 130802, Manta, Ecuador
TRACTOREPUESTOS CIA. LTDA. Cumbayá, Calle del Establo No. 60 and Av. Interoceánica, Quito, Ecuador
ABSTRACT
This work analyzes the impact, applications, and potential of 3D printing in construction, highlighting its ability to transform traditional methods through technical innovation and sustainability. Technologies such as Contour Crafting, D-Shape, and Concrete Printing have proven to be key tools by enabling the elimination of formworks, reducing costs and execution times, and minimizing waste, thus optimizing resources. Applications in social housing projects, infrastructures, and complex architectural elements are explored, using specialized concrete mixes and recycled materials that favor sustainability. Practical cases in Mexico and Lima show significant cost and time reductions, while advances in parametric design and structural simulations optimize construction efficiency and customization. However, challenges such as high initial costs, material limitations, the need for specific regulations, and technical training remain. Despite these barriers, 3D printing emerges as a viable solution for more efficient, sustainable, and adaptive construction, offering customization, resource optimization, and reduced environmental impact, establishing itself as an essential tool for the future of architecture and engineering.
3D printing; sustainability; construction; concrete; innovation; customization; efficiency; reduction; waste; materials; design; regulations; costs; technology; parametrization.