Redefining the Construction Industry with 3D Printing
Print it, don’t build it
The Nous construction division was established to pursue sustainable development goals for clients and the communities we operate in. We ensure economic and technical optimisation of the construction process.
We have expanded our expertise in the construction sector, from the design phase to construction and technology. Nous is a cutting-edge company aiming to redefine construction in Italy and abroad through additive manufacturing and Construction 4.0, digitalising and automating the process to reduce time and costs.
Redefining the Construction Industry
In 2017, Nous launched research and development led by architect Gerardo Arcangelo Pacillo. The R&D department focuses on technologies for the construction and energy sectors, leading to the creation of Nous Lab3DP+.
Our solutions in additive, subtractive, and assembly manufacturing set new standards for quality and efficiency, reducing waste. We offer commercial and production services, aiming for sustainable development in the AEC sector, in Italy and worldwide.
3D Printing by the Numbers
75%
FASTER
99%
CUSTOMISATION
-70%
TIME & COSTS
-40%
WASTE
Design, Engineering & Construction
The 3D Printing for Construction division supports the industry with technologies for Construction 4.0 and a circular economy.
We combine additive and subtractive manufacturing, offering a team to assess the feasibility of 3D printing and its integration with other methods. We design printable projects, evaluating construction strategies and components to ensure sustainability and efficiency.
Design, Architecture, Structures & Entire Buildings
With our 3D printing technology, we create various design projects, from small-scale solutions to large structures.
We manage architectural and engineering projects with prefabricated and complex structures, including entire buildings. This approach makes construction faster, more flexible, and more sustainable, transforming modern architecture.
A Technology for Every Project
3D printing offers endless possibilities, allowing for the creation of complex geometries that are impossible with traditional methods. This technology applies to multiple sectors, from small components to large-scale construction. Its versatility reduces production time and encourages innovation in engineering and architecture.
The Advantages of 3D Printing
Environmental
Social
Technical
Economic
3D Printing
Reduction of time and costs
Increase in property value
CO₂ emission reduction
Waste reduction
Design freedom
High durability & low maintenance
Greater workplace safety
What is Additive Manufacturing (AM)?
Additive Manufacturing (AM), also known as additive production or 3D printing, is a manufacturing process that enables the creation of three-dimensional objects by adding material layer by layer from a digital 3D model.
The ISO/ASTM 52900:2021 standard defines it as "a process of joining materials to create parts from 3D model data, usually layer upon layer, as opposed to subtractive manufacturing and formative manufacturing methods."
What is 3D Printing?
3D printing, or 3D Printing (3DP), is a type of Additive Manufacturing (AM). In fact, Additive Manufacturing is a process of manufacturing three-dimensional objects using 3D printing technology. The ISO/ASTM 52900 standard defines and classifies 3D printing technology and the types of 3D printing processes, totalling seven processes:
- VAT Polymerisation
- Material Extrusion (ME)
- Powder Bed Fusion (PBF)
- Material Jetting (MJ)
- Binder Jetting (BJ)
- Direct Energy Deposition (DED)
- Sheet Lamination.
Each individual 3D printing process encompasses many other technologies and printers that have been developed.
3D Printing in the Construction Industry?
3D printing in construction is referred to as 3D Concrete Printing (3DCP). This technology derives its concepts from Additive Manufacturing by scaling the process and technologies for large-scale use. 3D printing is an innovative technological solution that allows for the creation of building components and entire structures by depositing material layer by layer without the need for a standard formwork. Our 3DCP solutions enable the extrusion of various fluid-dense materials, such as mortars, concretes, and composites.
Why Use 3D Printing in Construction?
3D printing in construction represents an innovative technological solution capable of digitising and automating the construction process. Additionally, it increases productivity and reduces time, costs, and resources.
The main advantages are:
- Automation of the construction and manufacturing process
- Reduction in execution time
- Reduction in materials
- Reduction in labour costs
- New professional roles
- Development of new materials
- Reduction in resources and energy
- Design freedom (complex shapes and geometries)
- Greater safety
- Affordable housing
- Mass customisation
What Types of 3D Printers Are Used for Construction?
There are different types of 3D printers for construction. They can be divided into three main categories: gantry system, robotic arm, and delta system. Depending on the project and specific requirements, the most suitable technological solution can be identified. Our developed 3D printer solutions use both gantry concepts and robotic arms, combining them and applying various construction and manufacturing processes.
