Automated Shotcrete: A More Sustainable Construction Technology

Shotcreting is a technology that has been used in mining and tunnelling for decades and is now being investigated for its potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the construction industry. This technology involves spraying concrete onto surfaces to reinforce them, and recent advancements in digital manufacturing have made it possible to automate the process, potentially reducing carbon emissions and increasing productivity. This chapter discusses the limitations of 3D extrusion printing of concrete and explores the advantages of shotcreting, such as the ability to produce complex geometric forms without the need for formwork. By eliminating formwork, carbon emissions can be significantly reduced while increasing sustainability and productivity. The chapter also discusses state-of-the-art control systems and identifies suitable cementitious materials designed to optimise shotcreting. The use of shotcrete has the potential to create longer-lasting, more sustainable buildings and can be used to repair or rehabilitate existing structures, delaying the need for demolition and reconstruction. The reduction in carbon emissions associated with the construction industry through the use of shotcrete could contribute to a more sustainable future, aligning with UN Sustainable Development Goal 12. However, there are still research challenges that need to be addressed to advance the widespread adoption of shotcreting.