Material properties, rheology, printability, and mechanical performance of waste glass powder in 3D concrete printing: a comprehensive review

The global shift towards sustainability has driven significant advancements in construction methodologies. Among these innovations, 3D Concrete Printing (3DCP) stands out as a transformative technology that employs gantry robots to create intricate structures while significantly reducing carbon emissions. Recycling Waste Glass Powder (WGP) as a partial cement substitute addresses two major challenges: reducing landfill waste and enhancing concrete properties. This dual-purpose process transforms waste into value-added materials, thereby contributing to cost-effective, environmentally friendly construction practices. This paper offers a comprehensive review of the literature on WGP applications in 3DCP. It explores WGP’s impact on key concrete attributes, including workability, fluidity, buildability, printability, rheological parameters, compressive strength, flexural strength, and drying shrinkage. Microstructural analysis through scanning electron microscopy (SEM) provides additional insights, elucidating WGP’s role in improving concrete’s performance. The findings demonstrate that incorporating WGP in precise proportions enhances both the fresh and hardened properties of concrete, paving the way for more sustainable and advanced 3DCP applications. The paper concludes with actionable recommendations and outlines prospective research directions for utilizing green WGP-based construction materials, with a particular focus on optimizing their integration into 3DCP technology.