Review of Material Processing Technology for 3D Concrete Printing

Concrete 3D printing (3DCP) combines materials science with material processing technologies to enable automated, additive construction. This review summarizes findings from the literature and industrial practice on 3DCP mortar formulation with emphasis on the material processing chain. The workflow is examined from raw material storage through handling, mixing, and deposition. The roles of binders, aggregates, dispersed reinforcement, and chemical admixtures are discussed in relation to rheological behavior, buildability, and early-age mechanical performance. The analysis covers storage, dosing, and mixing strategies with respect to mix consistency and overall process reliability, while mortar pumping and extrusion are addressed alongside nozzle-injected additives and automation. Finally, limitations and scalability challenges are outlined with research directions such as continuous mixing, in-line monitoring, and adaptive mix formulation for on-site applications.