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 04/04/2025

• 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.

• Write critical reflection and other possible engagement contributions.

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

Summary + Thesis + Supports #2

Summary 

Stereolithography (SLA) 3D printing is a form of additive manufacturing which employs ultraviolet (UV) lasers to selectively cure liquid photopolymer resin into solid layers, producing highly detailed and precise components (Aerosport Additive, n.d.). In civil engineering, SLA technology is increasingly utilized for architectural modeling, structural prototyping, and customized component fabrication. Engineers leverage SLA printing to create scaled building models, bridges, and façade elements, achieving resolutions as fine as 25 microns (Wu, Wang, & Wang, 2016). SLA systems consist of a UV laser, a resin vat, and a build platform, which work together to achieve layer-by-layer curing. Advancements in engineering-grade resins now offer enhanced mechanical properties such as increased tensile strength, thermal stability, and chemical resistance, making SLA prototypes viable for functional testing (Goodfish Group, n.d.). Furthermore, SLA’s ability to fabricate intricate internal structures, including lattice frameworks, supports lightweight and optimized designs, a key factor in sustainable construction (All3DP, n.d.). While historically limited to small-scale applications, ongoing research explores SLA’s potential for producing modular building components, such as connectors and molds, to complement large-scale 3D concrete printing methods (Jipa, 2021).

Thesis

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

Supports

Support #1: SLA’s primary advantage is its ability to produce highly accurate and detailed prototypes.

Support #2: SLA enables the fabrication of customized and specialized components that traditional methods struggle to produce.

References

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

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

Goodfish Group. (n.d.). Stereolithography (SLA) 3D printing: The ultimate guide. Retrieved 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