Advancing polymer composites in civil infrastructure through 3D printing
Sachini Wickramasinghe, Allan Manalo, Omar Alajarmeh, Charles Dean Sorbello, Senarath Weerakoon, Tuan Ngo, Brahim Benmokrane
Abstract
Polymer composites (PCs) are increasingly used in civil infrastructure and construction due to their high strength, lightweight properties, and durability. When combined with automated manufacturing technologies such as 3D printing, they enable the efficient fabrication of complex engineering structures while minimizing material waste. As construction moves toward sustainable, automated, and digitally driven methods, understanding the potential of 3D-printed polymer composites becomes essential. This review addresses this emerging need by offering a civil-infrastructure specific synthesis of polymer composites in additive manufacturing as a pathway to a more sustainable and resilient built environment. The paper presents a comprehensive overview of the use of PCs in automated construction, highlighting key 3D printing techniques and printable polymer-based materials applied in building and infrastructure projects. It also discusses recent developments, current challenges, and emerging opportunities in PC-based 3D printing for civil engineering, supported by case studies, innovative construction methodologies, and future research directions.