In recent years, the construction sector has witnessed remarkable development thanks to the introduction of 3D printing technologies into the field. This technology promises significant cost and time savings, improved quality, and reduced material waste. This article aims to review the basic principles of construction using 3D printing, its current applications, benefits, challenges, and future prospects.<br /><br />3D printing is defined as an additive manufacturing process in which objects are built layer by layer based on a digital design. In construction, giant printers are used to build entire structures from concrete or other innovative materials, providing a novel solution to housing problems, especially in areas suffering from resource shortages or natural disasters.<br /><br />How It Works:<br />The construction process using a 3D printer involves the following stages:<br /><br />Designing the digital model using architectural design software (such as AutoCAD or Revit).<br /><br />Converting the design into a special printer data format (G-code).<br /><br />The printer executes the construction by extruding the construction material layer by layer until the building is completed.<br />Special cement mixtures that are fast-setting and highly pumpable are often used.<br /><br />Benefits of 3D Printing in Construction:<br /><br />Cost Savings: Reducing the need for labor and materials.<br /><br />Faster Execution Time: Constructing housing units within days instead of months.<br /><br />More Flexible Designs: Easily creating complex geometric shapes.<br /><br />Environmental Sustainability: Reducing waste and utilizing recycled or local materials.<br /><br />Challenges:<br /><br />Material Limitations: Most current printers only support concrete.<br /><br />Size and Logistics: The need for massive printers can complicate transportation.<br /><br />Regulations and Standards: Many countries lack legal frameworks to regulate this type of construction.<br /><br />Social Acceptance: Doubts about the durability and earthquake resistance of such buildings.<br /><br />Current Applications:<br /><br />Building low-cost homes in Mexico and India.<br /><br />Developing emergency shelters for refugees.<br /><br />Constructing bridges and urban facilities in the Netherlands and China.<br /><br />Future Prospects:<br />Advances in smart materials and autonomous robotics are expected to make 3D printing an essential part of the construction industry in the coming decades, focusing on sustainability and providing rapid, affordable housing, especially in developing and crisis-affected areas.<br />Construction using 3D printing represents a qualitative leap towards a smarter and more sustainable future. Despite technical and regulatory challenges, the tremendous potential of this technology makes it worthy of attention and continuous study.<br />The Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) achieved from the above article is:<br />Goal 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure<br />The article highlights the use of innovative technology (3D printing) in the development of the construction sector, promoting innovation and contributing to building sustainable and efficient infrastructure, especially in developing and crisis-affected areas.<br /><br />Al-Mustaqbal University the first university of Iraq .<br /><br />