Description
A Master of Science thesis in Construction Management by Mhd Amjad Alhomsi entitled, “Cost Evaluation of 3D Concrete Printing in the UAE Construction Industry”, submitted in November 2023. Thesis advisor is Dr. Adil Kahwash Al-Tamimi and thesis co-advisor id Dr. Ghanim Kashwani. Soft copy is available (Thesis, Completion Certificate, Approval Signatures, and AUS Archives Consent Form).
Abstract
The integration of 3D Concrete Printing (3DCP) in the construction sector is rapidly expanding, poised to revolutionize conventional processes and usher in disruptive technologies. Globally, the construction industry is actively exploring automated construction technologies, with a particular focus on the burgeoning capabilities of 3DCP. This technological shift not only enhances efficiency and reduces costs in construction projects but also extends its reach into realms beyond Earth, as evidenced by its application in building space habitats. This paper delves into case studies that meticulously demonstrate the invaluable impact of integrating 3DCP in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) construction industry. The discussion sheds light on diverse 3D Concrete (3DC) printers, each distinguished by unique attributes such as weight, price, building envelope, layer thickness, and more. While these factors remain immutable, the strategic selection of a 3DC printer at an optimal price point holds the key to substantial cost reduction in the final product. The primary objective of this thesis is to empower Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) in the UAE to make informed decisions when selecting a 3DC printer. Three carefully chosen printers from different manufacturers, widely available and easily deliverable, undergo rigorous evaluation through a cost analysis using the Delphi-Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) method, a Multicriteria Decision-Making (MCDM) technique. The research addresses decision-making challenges through Google Form questions, employing the AHP approach on the Saaty scale of 0–9 points. Supplemented by a thorough literature review on the challenges faced by SMEs in adopting 3DCP and an insightful interview with a construction professional from an SME, the research identifies the most crucial criteria for the second level in the AHP method. In the culmination of this comprehensive analysis, the research unequivocally asserts that CyBe Construction Robot Crawler (RC) emerges as the pinnacle 3DC printer. Offering SME decision-makers a harmonious blend of cost-effectiveness and feature-rich capabilities, CyBe RC stands as the optimal choice in the dynamic landscape of 3DCP.