Abstract

The construction industry continues to face significant challenges, including labor shortages, increasing housing demand, rising material costs, and pressure to reduce environmental impacts. Three-dimensional printed concrete (3DPC) has emerged as a potential alternative to conventional construction methods by improving automation, material efficiency, and construction productivity. However, existing research has focused primarily on single-family applications, leaving limited understanding of its feasibility for multi-family residential construction. This study evaluates whether 3D printed concrete can become a standardized construction method for multi-family residential buildings by comparing it with conventional concrete masonry unit (CMU) construction. A comparative, performance-based methodology was developed using two equivalent wall assemblies evaluated across four key metrics: thermal performance, labor productivity, embodied carbon, and mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) integration. Thermal performance was analyzed using THERM software, while the remaining metrics were assessed through digital modeling, published literature, and comparative analysis. The findings indicate that 3DPC offers improved thermal performance, greater labor efficiency, and the potential to reduce embodied carbon compared to conventional construction. However, challenges related to MEP coordination, regulatory acceptance, and industry standardization continue to limit widespread implementation. Overall, the results suggest that while 3D printed concrete is not yet a replacement for conventional construction, it demonstrates strong potential to become a viable construction method for future multi-family residential developments as the technology and regulatory framework continue to advance.

Publication Date

8-2026

Document Type

Thesis

Student Type

Graduate

Degree Name

Architecture (M.Arch.)

Department, Program, or Center

Architecture, Department of

College

Golisano Institute for Sustainability

Advisor

Julius J Chiavaroli

Campus

RIT – Main Campus

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