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Thailand's Dirty Canal Gets a 3D Printed Future
22 Jan
Summary
- Thailand's first 3D printed bridge spans Bangkok's Ong Ang Canal.
- SCG, Thailand's oldest cement firm, developed the innovative structure.
- 3D printing slashes construction time and enables unique architectural designs.

In Bangkok's Chinatown, the historic Ong Ang Canal has been revitalized with Thailand's first 3D-printed pedestrian bridge. Unveiled last month, this project by SCG, the country's oldest cement firm, showcases their advancements in 3D printing construction technology.
This innovative method, which utilizes robotic arms to lay concrete layer by layer, significantly reduces construction time and enables intricate, freeform architectural shapes that are challenging with traditional methods. SCG first adopted this technology in the early 2020s, previously constructing the world's first 3D-printed medical center in 2023.
The adoption of 3D printing is particularly beneficial for Thailand, addressing a dwindling construction workforce due to an aging population and labor shortages. This technology offers a path to greater efficiency in an industry reliant on migrant workers.




