AN ANALYSIS FOR INTEGRATING 3D PRINTING INTO CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS IN A DEVELOPING ECONOMY

AN ANALYSIS FOR INTEGRATING 3D PRINTING INTO CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS IN A DEVELOPING ECONOMY

The 3D printing technology is a fast-growing technology. While developed countries are increasingly embracing this technology, developing countries seem to still be reluctant with its adoption. This study aims to investigate the application and integration levels of 3D printing technology in the construction industry of developing economies. The demographic information of the respondents of the study was collected through a survey research design (closed-ended questionnaire). The data was analyzed using the mean score, standard deviation, and factor analysis. The findings of the study indicated that the level of application of 3D printing in developing economies is low. This situation was attributed to factors such as a lack of awareness of 3D printing technology and the probable use of alternative techniques to optimize construction processes. Hence, it was recommended that more awareness should be created on the potentials of implementing 3D printing technology in Africa. Further, enabling environment should be provided for the application and integration of 3D printing technology in the construction industry.