Advancements in 3D printing technology facilitate the implementation of innovative building processes. When combined with circular approaches in particular the use of recycled materials, significant reduction of environmental impact is expected. This paper presents an investigation into the potential of recycled materials for 3D printing habitats. The study’s main objective is to assess two recycled materials, concrete and sandstone, which are suitable for 3D printing. Through comparative analysis, the research aims to demonstrate the environmental impact and process feasibility of each material in the context of 3D printing. The methodology involves the evaluation of recycled concrete and sandstone regarding material properties and overall environmental footprint by comparing building components such as columns. The energy use and carbon footprint in 3D printing are evaluated with the goal to minimize waste and contribute to a closed-loop approach. One of the fundamental aspects of this assessment involves quantifying and comparing the carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions associated with each material at some stages of its life cycle, i.e., from material extraction to assembly. Consequently, by analyzing quantitative data, a basis for a more environmentally friendly circular approach for printing habitats is determined.

This paper revisits existing pop-up typologies in architecture to identify opportunities for new shelter models to address current housing demands and future habitation requirements on Mars. It presents advancements in design to production methodologies based on computational and robotic techniques to meet current requirements and affordances while integrating sustainable and adaptive functionalities. The main goal is to advance pop-up architecture by developing methods and technologies for rapidly deployable on- and off-Earth habitats while addressing challenges of carbon-free architecture by means of 3D printing. By reviewing state-of-the-art in-situ vs. prefab 3D printing approaches with a particular focus on Human-Robot Interaction (HRI) supported Design-to-Robotic-Production-Assembly and -Operation (D2RPA&O) methods developed at TU Delft material, process, and energy efficiency using locally sourced materials is achieved.

This paper addresses the complexities inherent in constructing sustainable extraterrestrial habitats within lava tubes that are envisioned as promising locations for human habitation and scientific inquiry. These environments are characterized by various challenges, which are addressed in this case by integrating computer vision (CV) techniques and 3D printing in-situ. The CV component generates a detailed depth map from synthetic imagery to combine this depth map with an adaptive 3D printing process, which is proposed to ensure level surfaces at various depths, facilitating precise foundation and habitat placement within the demanding context of lava tubes. Significantly, synthetic imagery is employed due to the absence of real lava tube photos at this early stage of the current exploration. The focal point lies in utilizing advanced deep learning (DL) algorithms and convolutional neural networks (CNN) to generate depth maps for extra/-terrestrial environments. This research represents a platform for further knowledge development in the fields of CV and its application to 3D printing in-situ, hence opening new avenues for sustainable extraterrestrial habitats.