Selection of Reinforcement Incorporation Method for 3D Printed Concrete Using MCDM (2025-02)¶

This study aims to select a reinforcement incorporation method for 3D-printed concrete structures. Different reinforcement incorporation methods are used at present, however a selection of reinforcement incorporation methods needs special attention. The CRITIC objective weighting method with MABAC and SAW MCDM techniques is used. The selection process involves evaluating alternatives based on four key criteria: degree of automation, complication arising from reinforcement incorporation, time of incorporation, and structural efficacy. The alternatives considered include no reinforcement, conventional reinforcement, micro reinforcement, post-tensioned reinforcement, and sync reinforcement. During the selection process, the degree of automation and structural efficacy emerges as highly influential criteria. The CRITIC-driven MABAC and SAW models provide a ranking for the reinforcement incorporation methods. Conventional reinforcement is found to be the most preferable choice, followed by micro reinforcement and sync reinforcement. It is important to leverage the degree of automation in the post-tensioned method. Based on the findings, it is recommended to avoid employing 3D-printed concrete structures without reinforcement due to their low structural efficacy. This research provides valuable insights and guidance for selecting the most appropriate reinforcement incorporation method in 3D-printed concrete projects, promoting improved structural integrity and overall efficiency.