Digital Concrete 2024 concluded with great success, bringing together over 400 enthusiastic participants from around the globe for three exhilarating days of innovation, collaboration, and fun. From September 4-6, the 4th RILEM International Conference on Concrete and Digital Fabrication transformed Munichs Science Congress Center into a vibrant hub of creativity and cutting-edge technology.
The event featured over 200 presentations across four dynamic parallel sessions, covering an impressive range of topics – from the latest scientific breakthroughs to practical applications of 3D concrete printing. From rising stars in the field to renowned 3D printing pioneers, the conference was a melting pot of ideas and expertise.
Engaging plenary lectures provided exciting insights and sparked discussions on key questions such as, “Is 3D printing truly living up to its promises in the construction industry?” and “What regulatory challenges still need to be overcome?” The Industry Insights– sessions were particularly lively, igniting passionate debates on how to effectively transfer research breakthroughs to real-world construction sites. These spirited discussions highlighted the community’s enthusiasm for pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with digital concrete technologies.
Atmosphere and Awards
A standout feature was the vibrant networking atmosphere, where participants from various fields could exchange ideas and forge valuable connections. The opportunity to connect with leading researchers, engineers, and industry experts fostered new collaborations and inspired further innovative projects.
The excitement peaked during the awards ceremony, where outstanding contributions were recognized with Best Paper, Best Presentation, and Best Poster awards. Congratulations to all the winners – your innovative work continues to drive the field forward!
Dirk Lowke, Chair of Digital Concrete 2024, extended his heartfelt thanks to all attendees, presenters, and the organizing team for making the conference a tremendous success. “It has been an incredible journey, and I am thrilled by the energy and enthusiasm everyone brought to the event,” said Lowke. He handed over the baton to Yamei Zhang, who will chair the next Digital Concrete conference in Nanjing, China, in two years. “We’re excited to see how the Digital Concrete community continues to grow and thrive on a global stage.”
Even before Digital Concrete started, two PhD workshops had already been successfully held at Technische Universität Braunschweig, with the Digital Building Fabrication Laboratory and the Digital Construction Site in full operation. The aim of these workshops was to further advance research and the integration of 3D printing in the construction industry and to engage in dialogue with other international scientists.
In conclusion, the atmosphere was clear: Digital Concrete 2024 was not only a success in terms of knowledge sharing and innovation but also a fantastic experience for everyone involved. The countdown is already on for the next event, promising even more groundbreaking developments and memorable moments. In two years, the Digital Concrete community will take its success beyond Europe to Nanjing, China, continuing its remarkable journey in Asia.
Information: The Digital Concrete 2024 / 4th RILEM International Conference on Concrete and Digital Fabrication, 4th to 6th September 2024 – Munich, Germany. The DC 2024 took place in Germany and was hosted by the Collaborative Research Centre TRR 277 “Additive Manufacturing in Construction (AMC)”, RILEM, Association, Technische Universität Braunschweig and the Technical University of Munich.
Text: Official press release of the Collaborative Research Center Transregio 277 Additive Manufacturing in Construction (AMC) on the Digital Concrete 2024 conference