A good deal of 3D printing for construction currently focuses on the developed world. 3D printed neighborhoods in Texas and the Netherlands are underway. Companies are looking at 3D printed formwork, bridges and customized houses. I’m not as excited about 3D printed homes right now. For me, there are other areas where 3D printing can make more of an impact.
In a previous article in this series, we looked at the types of pre-cast elements that could be mass customized and 3D printed locally or near sites. In another, we examined more broadly the opportunity for additive construction. To me, small pedestrian bridges, wild animal grates, silos, septic tanks, sea walls, pylons and other elements are much more valuable. You could print them quickly and them quickly. You wouldn’t need stock and could respond to market demand faster with less capital tied up in bits of concrete…
