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3D-Printing Technology in Construction: Results from a Survey

Abstract

Purpose:
The purpose of this paper is to study the introduction of 3D-printing of concrete in the construction sector.

Design/Methodology/Approach:
A survey was conducted to collect professional view on ongoing innovations in the construction sector, including 3D-printing. Participants were selected among the members of Norwegian networks for project and construction management research.

Findings:
The survey highlighted effective leadership, collaboration with partners, and industry-academia collaboration as primary enablers of innovation. Few of the respondents to the survey have used 3D-printing technologies.


Research limitations/implications:
It is difficult to obtain representative samples in this type of research, including this study. The study can be seen as a snapshot of attitudes in the sector.

Practical implications:
3D-printing appear as a potentially interesting technology, especially for unstandardized construction components. Further work is needed to materialize the expectation for technological development in the construction sector.

Originality/value:
Most research on 3D-printing has focused on demonstrating technical potential. This study adds a practitioners’ perspective, with a large dose of pragmatism.
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Category

Academic chapter

Language

English

Author(s)

Affiliation

  • SINTEF Community / Mobility
  • SINTEF Digital / Technology Management
  • Norwegian University of Science and Technology

Year

2019

Publisher

Emerald Group Publishing Limited

Book

Volume 2 - 10th Nordic Conference on Construction Economics and Organization

ISBN

9781838670511

Page(s)

349 - 356

View this publication at Norwegian Research Information Repository