Adoption of 3D printing technology in Sri Lanka's construction industry

Abstract

The construction industry does have a history of embracing new technologies more slowly than other sectors. 3D construction is a revolutionary technology that has recently identified as a possible technology with the potential to enhance the construction industry's effectiveness and efficiency. This research attempts to provide strategies for integrating this technology into the Sri Lankan construction industry. Using NVIVO, a literature review was carried out and recorded. First, a prototype questionnaire survey was conducted based on findings from the literature, followed by a regular questionnaire survey with 39 professionals with 5 to 20 years of experience to identify bottlenecks and enablers. In addition to the questionnaire, interviews were conducted with three experts with more than 30 years of professional experience to validate its outcomes. "Workforce unprepared to engage with 3D printing," "lack of standards or rules for 3D printing technology," and "high investment requirements" were the top three reported impediments. As enablers, design flexibility, cost advantages, and time savings were highlighted. As a final objective, three strategies were identified: "Conduct training for industry staff on how to interact with 3D printing," "facilitate the collaborative approach (partnering)," and "Construction industry to establish a new set of standards, guidelines, rules and regulations pertaining to adaptation of 3D printing into construction industry."