113 Architecture questions - Buildings from the 3D printer?
Will buildings eventually come out of the 3D printer?
There are already a large number of examples of houses that have been produced using 3D printers. These are mainly prototypes from start-up companies that are already delivering convincing results. The areas of application show great potential due to the flexibility in shape and fast construction time: refugee homes in war zones, houses in developing areas or shelters for the homeless are just a few examples of the many possible applications.
The big advantage is that not only conventional concrete can be sprayed out of the printer, but there is also the option of using recycled industrial or agricultural waste, for example - a clear, sustainable argument in favour of this construction method. In Austria, however, every building material that is used needs a seal of approval, and unfortunately it is unlikely that approval certificates will be obtained in the near future.
As nice as the idea of robots building houses themselves overnight is, widespread implementation is still some way off. Although the technology is developing very quickly, there are still many hurdles to overcome for mass production in Austria.
