Other Possible Engagement Contributions

3.3.1 – Initial Research Pathway

My initial interest in SLA 3D printing within the context of civil engineering began after learning about its potential to revolutionize construction methods, particularly in producing precise and complex structural components. I started by researching how stereolithography (SLA) works, focusing on its accuracy, material properties, and limitations compared to other 3D printing methods like FDM and SLS. I used Google Scholar and academic databases to find articles about SLA applications in civil structures, especially in fabricating scale models, structural prototypes, and architectural details.

I also used ChatGPT to generate questions and keywords such as "SLA 3D printing concrete molds," "additive manufacturing in civil engineering," and "material testing in SLA applications." It helped me explore areas I hadn't considered, such as the environmental impact and scalability of SLA printing in construction. One of the most helpful sources was a journal article discussing SLA's use in printing high-precision molds for concrete casting, which provided technical insights and case studies.

This initial research allowed me to shape the project’s direction by understanding the technology's strengths, like precision and surface finish, and the challenges in applying it on a large scale in civil engineering.

3.3.2 – Contributions to the Team

Throughout the project, I was actively involved in all key stages, from topic selection to final submission. Initially, I participated in the discussion to select a suitable topic and helped plan our project timeline. I used ChatGPT to generate ideas and shared relevant suggestions with the group, which helped spark meaningful discussions and refine our proposal direction.

During the proposal phase, I took responsibility for analyzing the problem and proposing feasible solutions. I conducted additional research to support our findings and collaborated with teammates to ensure our individual sections were aligned in clarity and tone. I also played a key role in editing the report for grammar, coherence, and proper referencing.

For our presentation, I contributed to slide design and participated in a mock session, offering constructive feedback to enhance delivery. I revised my own presentation section multiple times and supported a teammate who lacked confidence in public speaking by helping with scripting and rehearsal. After receiving feedback, I made targeted improvements to emphasize key points and pacing.

Finally, I worked closely with the team to polish the final report, ensuring it was cohesive and met all requirements.

3.3.3 – Expected Participation Mark

I believe a fair participation mark for me would be around 80%. I consistently attended all classes and actively contributed to group discussions and project work outside of class. I took on responsibilities in both the research and proposal stages and made sure to communicate effectively with my teammates throughout the process.

However, I recognize there were areas where I could improve. I was occasionally late to class, and during some in-class sessions, I was more reserved and less vocal compared to others. Despite this, I stayed attentive, took notes, and followed the discussions closely.

Moving forward, I hope to improve my punctuality and become more active in class discussions to fully engage with the learning environment.

3.3.4 – Oral Pitch

In the oral pitch for our timetable scheduling system proposal, I presented the introduction and core features of our solution. I highlighted how the current system causes frustration due to repeated logins and delayed updates. I then explained how our solution, a seamless, integrated calendar, would improve accessibility with real-time updates, cross-platform compatibility, and a user-friendly interface.

To prepare, I wrote and practiced my script several times, incorporating feedback from teammates to improve clarity and pacing. I coordinated closely with the group to ensure a consistent message, aiming to deliver the pitch with confidence and impact

3.3.5 – Responding to Questions

During our presentation, I answered a question about whether our scheduling system would replace the current one at SIT. I explained that our goal was not to replace it completely but to improve the user experience by offering a more convenient and updated interface. I said it could work together with the current system by linking data and making access easier for students.

I also responded to some course-related questions during class discussions, especially when we talked about examples of good user-centered design. I shared my thoughts and gave feedback to others, which helped me think more critically.

If there were questions I was not sure about, I stayed calm and either shared what I knew or let a teammate answer. These moments helped me become more confident when speaking and responding to questions.

Critical Reflection

Module Learning

At the beginning of the module, I set two main goals: to build confidence in public speaking and to strengthen my critical thinking skills. Reflecting on my progress, I believe I have made steady improvements in both areas, though there is still room for further development.

In terms of public speaking, I started the course feeling uncertain, especially when responding to spontaneous questions. I often struggled with nervousness during presentations, particularly under pressure. However, through the mock presentations and class discussions, I gradually became more comfortable speaking in front of others. Practicing in smaller groups helped me organize my thoughts better and respond more calmly when asked questions. I also paid attention to feedback from my instructor and peers and applied their suggestions to improve my pacing and delivery. While I still occasionally feel anxious, I now approach presentations with more confidence and a clearer structure.

Regarding critical thinking, the course has helped me learn how to analyze problems from multiple perspectives. Previously, I tended to focus on technical solutions without fully questioning the assumptions behind them. Now, I am more comfortable challenging ideas, evaluating sources critically, and building arguments with supporting evidence. Using tools like ChatGPT also helped me expand my thinking by prompting alternative viewpoints and helping me refine my arguments.

To continue developing, I plan to participate more actively in group discussions and reflect more deeply on feedback. I will also engage with case studies and engineering scenarios to practice applying critical thinking in practical contexts. These steps will help me grow further as a communicator and thinker.

Project Learning

The group project gave me a valuable opportunity to reflect on my learning, particularly in the areas of teamwork, research writing, and presentation. Early on, I helped coordinate our topic selection and schedule. As someone who enjoys organizing tasks and keeping things on track, I found myself naturally taking the lead in planning. I also contributed heavily to the research and proposal writing process by suggesting ideas, reviewing drafts, and ensuring our arguments were clear and supported.

Working with teammates showed me how diverse perspectives can improve the quality of a project. I learned to listen more actively and to be open to feedback, even when it meant adjusting my own ideas. This helped me build better collaboration skills and improved the overall effectiveness of our team. I also found that I was able to support others not just by contributing content but also by helping clarify ideas and polishing the final draft for cohesion and consistency.

One major area of growth was my presentation ability. In the past, I struggled with confidence during public speaking, as I mentioned in my initial goal. But through our mock presentations and team rehearsals, I started to feel more at ease. I practiced not only my part of the script but also how to respond to questions more calmly. Receiving feedback from the instructor after the mock session helped me focus on key areas, such as slowing down and making eye contact. These small changes made a big difference in how I delivered my final presentation.

This project also changed the way I view learning. I used to think of learning as something individual, but I now see how much growth happens through collaboration. I have learned that being flexible, open-minded, and willing to revise ideas is just as important as technical knowledge. These insights will stay with me as I take on future academic and professional challenges.

Additional Final Draft Reader Response

Stereolithography (3D printing) is a type of additive manufacturing that uses ultraviolet (UV) lasers to selectively cure liquid photopolymer resin into solid layers, resulting in extremely detailed and exact components (Aerosport Additive, n.d.). In civil engineering, SLA technology is rapidly being used for prototyping and specialty component manufacture. Engineers use SLA to generate scaled architectural models, bridges, and façade features with resolutions ranging from 1 to 366 microns (Wu et al., 2016). SLA systems are made up of a UV laser, a resin vat, and a build platform that work together to cure the layers in order. Advances in engineering-grade resins have resulted in improved mechanical qualities such as greater tensile strength, thermal stability, and chemical resistance, making SLA prototypes suitable for functional testing. Furthermore, SLA's capacity to create complicated internal structures, such as lattice frameworks, enables lightweight and optimal designs, which are critical for sustainable building (All3DP, n.d.). SLA is also being studied for its capacity to manufacture modular building components like connections and molds to augment large-scale 3D concrete printing (Jipa, 2021).

SLA 3D printing offers substantial benefits in civil engineering applications, especially prototyping and specialized component manufacture. However, issues with material durability and cost limit its use in large-scale buildings.

The main benefit of SLA is its capacity to produce precise and detailed prototypes. This level of detail is particularly useful for creating architectural models and structural prototypes in civil engineering. Wu et al. (2016) stressed its utility in developing models with complicated geometry, allowing engineers to assess load distribution, structural viability, and visual appearance before starting full-scale construction. Identifying potential design problems at an early stage helps to reduce material waste and improve sustainability.

Beyond prototyping, SLA allows for the creation of customized and specialized components that traditional technologies fail to make. SLA can produce complicated façade elements, lightweight lattice structures, and decorative architectural features at high resolution (All3DP, n.d.). This is especially valuable for historical restorations, as SLA enables the perfect recreation of tiny ornamental features without requiring labor-intensive workmanship (3Dnatives, 2018).  Furthermore, SLA's lightweight lattice structures maximize material efficiency while preserving structural integrity, which has been investigated for earthquake-resistant designs.

Despite its precision, SLA printing has material and cost constraints. Photopolymer resins lack the mechanical strength and endurance needed for long-term structural applications, with compressive strengths lower than traditional materials like steel or concrete (Wu et al., 2016). Furthermore, SLA-printed components degrade with continuous UV exposure, restricting their use outdoors (Goodfish Group, n.d.). The limitations of these constraints confine SLA applications to visual aids, prototypes, and temporary molds instead of allowing for permanent structures. Furthermore, SLA costs more than other 3D printing technologies. Industrial SLA printers cost between $3,000 and $10,000, with resin ranging from $50 to $400 per liter. Extensive post-processing, such as resin washing and UV curing, increases labor and material costs, limiting SLA's suitability for large-scale applications.

To address these issues, researchers propose combining SLA with other additive manufacturing processes. Jipa (2021) focuses on the use of SLA-printed molds and connectors to enhance large-scale concrete printing. For example, SLA-produced silicone molds can accelerate the casting of decorative concrete pieces, reducing manual labor and construction time. Similarly, SLA-printed modular connectors can facilitate the assembly of prefabricated buildings, improving efficiency. On the other hand, advancements in reinforced SLA resins, such as ceramic-filled and fiber-reinforced composites, have been shown to increase material durability and heat resistance (Dassault Systèmes, n.d.; 3Dresyns, n.d.).

Understanding the significance of SLA in civil engineering requires a comparison to other 3D printing technologies such as fused deposition modeling (FDM), selective laser sintering (SLS), and digital light processing (DLP). While SLA excels at fine detail and precision, FDM is a more cost-effective solution for large-scale prototyping because of its low cost and material diversity (Aurum3D, n.d.). SLS is preferable for load-bearing components since it produces mechanical stronger functioning parts fit for structural uses. By using these variations, engineers can choose the most suitable technology for a certain building project, therefore ensuring cost-effectiveness, durability, and accuracy.

SLA 3D printing is an essential technology in civil engineering, enabling high-precision prototyping and the fabrication of specialized components. However, its current limitations in material strength and cost underline the importance of new technologies in increasing its influence. Future advances in resin compositions, cost-effective production methods, and hybrid manufacturing systems may enable SLA to realize its full potential in sustainable and large-scale infrastructure building. As research refines SLA's position in civil engineering, combining this technology with other additive manufacturing methods could lead to new alternatives for efficient and cost-effective construction solutions.

References

Aerosport Additive. (n.d.). Stereolithography (SLA) 3D printing. https://www.aerosportadditive.com/

All3DP. (n.d.). 3D printing lattice structures: The ultimate guide. https://all3dp.com/1/3d-printing-lattice-structures-the-ultimate-guide/

Aurum3D. (n.d.). 3D printing technology comparison: FDM vs. SLS vs. SLA. https://www.aurum3d.com/blog/3d-printing-technology-comparison-fdm-vs-sls-vs-sla/

Dassault Systèmes. (n.d.). SLA 3D printing materials compared. https://www.3ds.com/make/solutions/blog/sla-3d-printing-materials-compared

Goodfish Group. (n.d.). Stereolithography (SLA) 3D printing: The ultimate guide. https://www.goodfishgroup.com/stereolithography-sla-3d-printing-the-ultimate-guide

Jipa, A. (2021). Exploring SLA 3D printing for modular building components in large-scale construction. 3D Printing and Additive Manufacturing, 8(4), 189-202. https://doi.org/10.1089/3dp.2021.0024

Protolabs. (n.d.). Types of 3D printing. https://www.protolabs.com/resources/blog/types-of-3d-printing/

3Dresyns. (n.d.). Reinforced composite 3D resins. https://www.3dresyns.com/pages/reinforced-composite-3dresyns-rc

3Dnatives. (2018, June 11). EDG architecture uses 3D printing for modern ornament restoration. https://www.3dnatives.com/en/edg-architecture-3d-printing110620184/

Wu, P., Wang, J., & Wang, X. (2016). A critical review of the use of 3D printing in the construction industry. Automation in Construction, 68, 21-31. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.autcon.2016.04.005

Zongheng3D. (n.d.). The costs of SLA 3D printing. https://www.zongheng3d.com/the-costs-of-sla-3d-printing/

Individual Research contributions to Group project

Updated on 28/02/2025

• Topic Selection & Timetable Planning

To start, we discussed exploring potential topics that aligned with our interests and project requirements. After considering various options, we collectively decided on a topic that was both relevant and manageable within our timeframe.

• Research & Idea Generation

To enhance our research, I used ChatGPT to generate ideas and insights related to our topic. I shared these AI-generated suggestions with the team, which helped spark discussions and refine our approach. This process allowed us to consider diverse perspectives and strengthen our project content.

• Collaboration & Communication

Throughout the project, I maintained open communication with team members, addressing any concerns and ensuring smooth coordination. By fostering a collaborative environment, we were able to work efficiently and make significant progress together.

Overall, I was involved in both planning and active participation in research and discussions, ensuring that our group stayed organized and productive.

Updated on 01/03/2025

After submitting the Reader Response assignment and receiving the grade and feedback, I took time to carefully review the comments. I reflected on areas where I could improve,  such as strengthening my argument structure and providing clearer evidence and made revisions to enhance the quality of my writing. This helped me better understand the expectations for academic writing and how to apply feedback constructively.

Updated on 11/03/2025

• we divided the workload for the proposal report and I contributed to the part of problem solutions

• Working on problem solutions by analyzing the key challenges and proposing feasible approaches.

• Conducting additional research to support our findings and ensure accuracy in our report.

• Collaborating with teammates to review and refine our individual sections for consistency and clarity.

Updated on 21/03/2025

• Participated in a mock presentation session with the group, offering constructive feedback to improve our delivery, slide design, and timing.

• Revised my presentation segment multiple times based on feedback to ensure clarity, confidence, and logical transitions.

• Supported a teammate who was less confident with public speaking by helping script their portion and rehearsing together.

• After the presentation, I paid close attention to the feedback and suggestions and made a note to improve on these areas in the final delivery,  especially in terms of clarity, pacing, and emphasizing key points.

Updated on 01/04/2025

Check grammar, coherence, and academic tone before submission.

Ensured proper referencing and citation in accordance with the required format.

Worked with the team to complete and polish the final draft report , ensuring it was cohesive and met all project requirements.

Hu Zhanyuan_Reader Response_Final Draft

Stereolithography (3D printing) is a type of additive manufacturing that uses ultraviolet (UV) lasers to selectively cure liquid photopolymer resin into solid layers, resulting in extremely detailed and exact components (Aerosport Additive, n.d.). In civil engineering, SLA technology is rapidly being used for prototyping and specialty component manufacture. Engineers use SLA to generate scaled architectural models, bridges, and façade features with resolutions ranging from 1 to 366 microns (Wu et al., 2016). SLA systems are made up of a UV laser, a resin vat, and a build platform that work together to cure the layers in order. Advances in engineering-grade resins have resulted in improved mechanical qualities such as greater tensile strength, thermal stability, and chemical resistance, making SLA prototypes suitable for functional testing. Furthermore, SLA's capacity to create complicated internal structures, such as lattice frameworks, enables lightweight and optimal designs, which are critical for sustainable building (All3DP, n.d.). SLA is also being studied for its capacity to manufacture modular building components like connections and molds to augment large-scale 3D concrete printing (Jipa, 2021).

SLA 3D printing offers substantial benefits in civil engineering applications, especially prototyping and specialized component manufacture. However, issues with scalability, material durability, and cost limit its use in large-scale buildings.

The main advantage of SLA is its capacity to produce precise and detailed prototypes. This level of detail is particularly useful for creating architectural models and structural prototypes in civil engineering. Wu et al. (2016) stressed its utility in developing models with complicated geometry, allowing engineers to assess load distribution, structural viability, and visual appearance before starting full-scale construction. Identifying potential design problems at an early stage helps to reduce material waste and improve sustainability.

Beyond prototyping, SLA allows for the creation of customized and specialized components that traditional technologies fail to make. SLA can produce complicated façade elements, lightweight lattice structures, and decorative architectural features at high resolution (All3DP, n.d.). This is especially valuable for historical restorations, as SLA enables the perfect recreation of tiny ornamental features without requiring labor-intensive workmanship (3Dnatives, 2018). Furthermore, SLA's lightweight lattice structures maximize material efficiency while preserving structural integrity, which has been investigated for earthquake-resistant designs.

Despite its precision, SLA printing has material and cost constraints. Photopolymer resins lack the mechanical strength and endurance needed for long-term structural applications, with compressive strengths lower than traditional materials like steel or concrete (Wu et al., 2016). Furthermore, SLA-printed components degrade with continuous UV exposure, restricting their use outdoors (Goodfish Group, n.d.). The limitations of these constraints confine SLA applications to visual aids, prototypes, and temporary molds instead of allowing for permanent structures. Furthermore, SLA costs more than other 3D printing technologies. Industrial SLA printers cost between $3,000 and $10,000, with resin ranging from $50 to $400 per liter. Extensive post-processing, such as resin washing and UV curing, increases labor and material costs, limiting SLA's suitability for large-scale applications.

To address these issues, researchers propose combining SLA with other additive manufacturing processes. Jipa (2021) proposes using SLA-printed molds or connectors to enhance large-scale concrete printing. For example, SLA-produced silicone molds can speed up the casting of decorative concrete pieces, decreasing manual labor and construction time. In the same way, SLA-printed modular connectors can assist in the assembly of prefabricated buildings, enhancing efficiency. Furthermore, advances in reinforced SLA resins, such as ceramic-filled and fiber-reinforced composites, increase material durability and heat resistance (Dassault Systèmes, n.d.; 3Dresyns, n.d.).

Understanding the significance of SLA in civil engineering requires a comparison to other 3D printing technologies such as fused deposition modeling (FDM), selective laser sintering (SLS), and digital light processing (DLP). While SLA excels at fine detail and precision, FDM is a more cost-effective solution for large-scale prototyping because of its low cost and material diversity (Aurum3D, n.d.). SLS is preferable for load-bearing components since it produces mechanical stronger functioning parts fit for structural uses. By use of these variations, engineers can choose the most suitable technology for a certain building project, therefore ensuring cost-effectiveness, durability, and accuracy.

SLA 3D printing is a critical tool for civil engineering prototyping and specialized applications, allowing for high precision and innovative design solutions. However, its current limitations in material strength and cost underline the importance of new technologies in increasing its influence. Future advances in resin compositions, cost-effective production methods, and hybrid manufacturing systems may enable SLA to realize its full potential in sustainable and large-scale infrastructure building. As research refines SLA's position in civil engineering, combining this technology with other additive manufacturing methods could lead to new alternatives for efficient and cost-effective construction solutions.

(Used ChatGPT to check my grammar.)

References

Aerosport Additive. (n.d.). Stereolithography (SLA) 3D printing. Retrieved February 10, 2025, from https://www.aerosportadditive.com/

All3DP. (n.d.). 3D printing lattice structures: The ultimate guide. Retrieved February 10, 2025, from https://all3dp.com/1/3d-printing-lattice-structures-the-ultimate-guide/

Aurum3D. (n.d.). 3D printing technology comparison: FDM vs. SLS vs. SLA. Retrieved February 10, 2025, from https://www.aurum3d.com/blog/3d-printing-technology-comparison-fdm-vs-sls-vs-sla/

Dassault Systèmes. (n.d.). SLA 3D printing materials compared. Retrieved February 10, 2025, from https://www.3ds.com/make/solutions/blog/sla-3d-printing-materials-compared

Goodfish Group. (n.d.). Stereolithography (SLA) 3D printing: The ultimate guide. Retrieved February 10, 2025, from https://www.goodfishgroup.com/stereolithography-sla-3d-printing-the-ultimate-guide

Jipa, A. (2021). Exploring SLA 3D printing for modular building components in large-scale construction. 3D Printing and Additive Manufacturing, 8(4), 189-202. https://doi.org/10.1089/3dp.2021.0024

Protolabs. (n.d.). Types of 3D printing. Retrieved February 10, 2025, from https://www.protolabs.com/resources/blog/types-of-3d-printing/

3Dresyns. (n.d.). Reinforced composite 3D resins. Retrieved February 10, 2025, from https://www.3dresyns.com/pages/reinforced-composite-3dresyns-rc

3Dnatives. (2018, June 11). EDG architecture uses 3D printing for modern ornament restoration. Retrieved February 10, 2025, from https://www.3dnatives.com/en/edg-architecture-3d-printing110620184/

Wu, P., Wang, J., & Wang, X. (2016). A critical review of the use of 3D printing in the construction industry. Automation in Construction, 68, 21-31. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.autcon.2016.04.005

Zongheng3D. (n.d.). The costs of SLA 3D printing. Retrieved from https://www.zongheng3d.com/the-costs-of-sla-3d-printing/

 

Summary Draft #4

Stereolithography (3D printing) is a type of additive manufacturing that uses ultraviolet (UV) lasers to selectively cure liquid photopolymer resin into solid layers, resulting in extremely detailed and exact components (Aerosport Additive, n.d.). In civil engineering, SLA technology is rapidly being used for prototyping and specialty component manufacture. Engineers use SLA to generate scaled architectural models, bridges, and façade features with resolutions ranging from 1 to 366 microns (Wu et al., 2016). SLA systems are made up of a UV laser, a resin vat, and a build platform that work together to cure the layers in order. Advances in engineering-grade resins have resulted in improved mechanical qualities such as greater tensile strength, thermal stability, and chemical resistance, making SLA prototypes suitable for functional testing. Furthermore, SLA's capacity to create complicated internal structures, such as lattice frameworks, enables lightweight and optimal designs, which are critical for sustainable building (All3DP, n.d.). SLA is also being studied for its capacity to manufacture modular building components like connections and molds to augment large-scale 3D concrete printing (Jipa, 2021). 

SLA 3D printing offers substantial benefits in civil engineering applications, especially prototyping and specialized component manufacture. However, issues with scalability, material durability, and cost limit its use in large-scale building. 

The main advantage of SLA is its capacity to produce precise and detailed prototypes. This level of detail is particularly useful for creating architectural models and structural prototypes in civil engineering. Wu et al. (2016) stressed its utility in developing models with complicated geometry, allowing engineers to assess load distribution, structural viability, and visual appearance before starting full-scale construction. Identifying potential design problems at an early stage helps to reduce material waste and improve sustainability.

Beyond prototyping, SLA allows for the creation of customized and specialized components that traditional technologies fail to make. SLA can produce complicated façade elements, lightweight lattice structures, and decorative architectural features at high resolution (All3DP, n.d.). This is especially valuable for historical restorations, as SLA enables the perfect recreation of tiny ornamental features without requiring labor-intensive workmanship (3Dnatives, 2018). Furthermore, SLA's lightweight lattice structures maximize material efficiency while preserving structural integrity, which has been investigated for earthquake-resistant designs.

Despite its precision, SLA printing has material and cost constraints. Photopolymer resins lack the mechanical strength and endurance needed for long-term structural applications, with compressive strengths lower than traditional materials like steel or concrete (Wu et al., 2016). Furthermore, SLA-printed components degrade with continuous UV exposure, restricting their use outdoors (Goodfish Group, n.d.). The limitations of these constraints confine SLA applications to visual aids, prototypes, and temporary molds instead of allowing for permanent structures. Furthermore, SLA costs more than other 3D printing technologies. Industrial SLA printers cost between $3,000 and $10,000, with resin ranging from $50 to $400 per liter. Extensive post-processing, such as resin washing and UV curing, increases labor and material costs, limiting SLA's suitability for large-scale applications.

To address these issues, researchers propose combining SLA with other additive manufacturing processes. Jipa (2021) proposes using SLA-printed molds or connectors to enhance large-scale concrete printing. For example, SLA-produced silicone molds can speed up the casting of decorative concrete pieces, decreasing manual labor and construction time. In the same way, SLA-printed modular connectors can assist in the assembly of prefabricated buildings, enhancing efficiency. Furthermore, advances in reinforced SLA resins, such as ceramic-filled and fiber-reinforced composites, increase material durability and heat resistance (Dassault Systèmes, n.d.; 3Dresyns, n.d.).

Understanding the significance of SLA in civil engineering requires a comparison to other 3D printing technologies such as fused deposition modeling (FDM), selective laser sintering (SLS), and digital light processing (DLP). While SLA excels at fine detail and precision, FDM is a more cost-effective solution for large-scale prototyping because to its low cost and material diversity (Aurum3D, n.d.). SLS is preferable for load-bearing components since it produces mechanical stronger functioning parts fit for structural uses. By use of these variations, engineers can choose the most suitable technology for a certain building project, therefore ensuring cost-effectiveness, durability, and accuracy.

SLA 3D printing is a critical tool for civil engineering prototyping and specialized applications, allowing for high precision and innovative design solutions. However, its current limitations in material strength and cost underline the importance of new technologies in increasing its influence. Future advances in resin compositions, cost-effective production methods, and hybrid manufacturing systems may enable SLA to realize its full potential in sustainable and large-scale infrastructure building. As research refines SLA's position in civil engineering, combining this technology with other additive manufacturing methods could lead to new alternatives for efficient and cost-effective construction solutions.

(Used ChatGPT to check my grammar)

References

Aerosport Additive. (n.d.). Stereolithography (SLA) 3D printing. Retrieved February 10, 2025, from https://www.aerosportadditive.com/

All3DP. (n.d.). 3D printing lattice structures: The ultimate guide. Retrieved February 10, 2025, from https://all3dp.com/1/3d-printing-lattice-structures-the-ultimate-guide/

Aurum3D. (n.d.). 3D printing technology comparison: FDM vs. SLS vs. SLA. Retrieved February 10, 2025, from https://www.aurum3d.com/blog/3d-printing-technology-comparison-fdm-vs-sls-vs-sla/

Dassault Systèmes. (n.d.). SLA 3D printing materials compared. Retrieved February 10, 2025, from https://www.3ds.com/make/solutions/blog/sla-3d-printing-materials-compared

Goodfish Group. (n.d.). Stereolithography (SLA) 3D printing: The ultimate guide. Retrieved February 10, 2025, from https://www.goodfishgroup.com/stereolithography-sla-3d-printing-the-ultimate-guide

Jipa, A. (2021). Exploring SLA 3D printing for modular building components in large-scale construction. 3D Printing and Additive Manufacturing, 8(4), 189-202. https://doi.org/10.1089/3dp.2021.0024

Protolabs. (n.d.). Types of 3D printing. Retrieved February 10, 2025, from https://www.protolabs.com/resources/blog/types-of-3d-printing/

3Dresyns. (n.d.). Reinforced composite 3D resins. Retrieved February 10, 2025, from https://www.3dresyns.com/pages/reinforced-composite-3dresyns-rc

3Dnatives. (2018, June 11). EDG architecture uses 3D printing for modern ornament restoration. Retrieved February 10, 2025, from https://www.3dnatives.com/en/edg-architecture-3d-printing110620184/

Wu, P., Wang, J., & Wang, X. (2016). A critical review of the use of 3D printing in the construction industry. Automation in Construction, 68, 21-31. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.autcon.2016.04.005

Zongheng3D. (n.d.). The costs of SLA 3D printing. Retrieved from https://www.zongheng3d.com/the-costs-of-sla-3d-printing/

 

Summary Draft #3

Stereolithography (3D printing) is a type of additive manufacturing that uses ultraviolet (UV) lasers to selectively cure liquid photopolymer resin into solid layers, resulting in extremely detailed and exact components (Aerosport Additive, n.d.). In civil engineering, SLA technology is rapidly being used for prototyping and specialty component manufacture. Engineers use SLA to generate scaled architectural models, bridges, and façade features with resolutions ranging from 1 to 366 microns (Wu et al., 2016). SLA systems are made up of a UV laser, a resin vat, and a build platform that work together to cure the layers in order. Advances in engineering-grade resins have resulted in improved mechanical qualities such as greater tensile strength, thermal stability, and chemical resistance, making SLA prototypes suitable for functional testing. Furthermore, SLA's capacity to create complicated internal structures, such as lattice frameworks, enables lightweight and optimal designs, which are critical for sustainable building (All3DP, n.d.). SLA is also being investigated for its ability to produce modular building components such as connectors and molds to supplement large-scale 3D concrete printing (Jipa, 2021).

SLA 3D printing provides significant advantages in civil engineering applications, particularly for prototyping and specialized component fabrication. However, challenges in scalability, material durability, and cost limit its widespread adoption in large-scale construction.

 
SLA's main advantage is its ability to create extremely accurate and detailed prototypes. This level of precision is especially useful when creating architectural models and structural prototypes in civil engineering. Wu et al. (2016) emphasized its usefulness in creating models with complicated geometry, allowing engineers to analyze load distribution, structural feasibility, and aesthetic appeal before beginning full-scale construction. Identifying potential design faults early reduces material waste and improves sustainability.
 
Beyond prototyping, SLA allows for the creation of customized and specialized components that traditional technologies fail to make. SLA can produce complicated façade elements, lightweight lattice structures, and decorative architectural features at high resolution (All3DP, n.d.). This is especially valuable for historical restorations, as SLA enables the perfect recreation of tiny ornamental features without requiring labor-intensive workmanship (3Dnatives, 2018). Furthermore, SLA's lightweight lattice structures maximize material efficiency while preserving structural integrity, which has been investigated for earthquake-resistant designs. However, SLA resin's weak mechanical qualities limit its use to non-load-bearing components or temporary construction assistance.
 
Despite its precision, SLA printing has material and cost restrictions. Photopolymer resins lack the mechanical strength and endurance required for long-term structural applications, having lower compressive strength than traditional materials such as steel or concrete (Wu et al., 2016). Furthermore, SLA-printed components disintegrate with prolonged UV exposure, limiting their application in outdoor contexts (Goodfish Group, n.d.). These limits restrict SLA uses to visual aids, prototypes, and temporary molds rather than permanent structures. Furthermore, SLA is more expensive than other 3D printing processes. Industrial SLA printers cost between $3,000 and $10,000, with resin ranging from $25 to $300 per kilogram. Extensive post-processing, such as resin washing and UV curing, increases labor and material costs, restricting its viability for large-scale applications.
 
To address these issues, researchers propose combining SLA with other additive manufacturing processes. Jipa (2021) suggests employing SLA-printed molds or connectors to supplement large-scale concrete printing. For example, SLA-produced silicone molds can speed up the casting of decorative concrete pieces, decreasing manual labor and construction time. Similarly, SLA-printed modular connectors can aid in the assembly of prefabricated buildings, increasing efficiency. Furthermore, advances in reinforced SLA resins, such as ceramic-filled and fiber-reinforced composites, increase material durability and heat resistance (Dassault Systèmes, n.d.; 3Dresyns, n.d.). Research on biodegradable and recyclable photopolymers aims to improve construction sustainability.
 
Comparing SLA to other 3D printing technologies such as FDM, Selective Laser Sintering (SLS), and Digital Light Processing (DLP) can help to refine its application in civil engineering. While SLA excels at fine detail, FDM is more cost-effective for large-scale prototyping, and SLS produces stronger functional components. Understanding these distinctions enables engineers to select the most appropriate technology for certain construction applications.
 
SLA 3D printing is a crucial tool for civil engineering prototyping and specialized applications, allowing for unprecedented precision and new design solutions. However, its existing limits in material strength and cost underscore the importance of additional technologies in maximizing its influence. Future developments in resin compositions, cost-effective production methods, and hybrid manufacturing systems may allow SLA to reach its full potential in sustainable and large-scale infrastructure development. As research refines SLA's position in civil engineering, merging this technology with other additive manufacturing processes may open up new options for efficient and cost-effective construction solutions.

References

All3DP. (n.d.). 3D printing lattice structures: The ultimate guide. Retrieved February 10, 2025, from https://all3dp.com/1/3d-printing-lattice-structures-the-ultimate-guide/

Aerosport Additive. (n.d.). Stereolithography (SLA) 3D printing. Retrieved February 10, 2025, from https://www.aerosportadditive.com/

Dassault Systèmes. (n.d.). SLA 3D printing materials compared. Retrieved February 10, 2025, from https://www.3ds.com/make/solutions/blog/sla-3d-printing-materials-compared

Goodfish Group. (n.d.). Stereolithography (SLA) 3D printing: The ultimate guide. Retrieved February 10, 2025, from https://www.goodfishgroup.com/stereolithography-sla-3d-printing-the-ultimate-guide

Jipa, A. (2021). Exploring SLA 3D printing for modular building components in large-scale construction. 3D Printing and Additive Manufacturing, 8(4), 189-202. https://doi.org/10.1089/3dp.2021.0024

3Dresyns. (n.d.). Reinforced composite 3D resins. Retrieved February 10, 2025, from https://www.3dresyns.com/pages/reinforced-composite-3dresyns-rc

3Dnatives. (2018, June 11). EDG architecture uses 3D printing for modern ornament restoration. Retrieved February 10, 2025, from https://www.3dnatives.com/en/edg-architecture-3d-printing110620184/

Wu, P., Wang, J., & Wang, X. (2016). A critical review of the use of 3D printing in the construction industry. Automation in Construction, 68, 21-31. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.autcon.2016.04.005