Construction of Affordable Housing Units through 3D Printing Technologies Request for information
Reference: RFIUNHABITAT23648
Beneficiary countries or territories: Iraq
Registration level: Basic
Published on: 14-May-2025
Deadline on: 27-May-2025 23:59 (GMT -4.00)
Description
Purpose of the Request: The United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) is seeking technical information and indicative cost estimates from qualified vendors and service
providers regarding the feasibility of deploying 3D printing technology for the construction of affordable housing units in Mosul and Ramadi, Iraq. This Request for Information (RFI) aims
to assess the technical suitability, material specifications, logistical requirements, and associated costs for implementing 3D-printed housing solutions in the context of post-conflict
urban recovery and reconstruction. Background: UN-Habitat is exploring innovative construction technologies to accelerate the delivery of sustainable, cost-efficient, and
climate-resilient housing in Iraq’s conflict-affected cities. 3D printing construction is being considered as a potentially viable solution for delivering rapid, high-quality housing
that meets minimum habitability standards while reducing material waste and labor dependency. Scope of Information Requested: Interested parties are invited to provide detailed responses
to the following inquiries: 1. Technology & Equipment Specifications: a. What 3D printing systems (e.g., gantry-based, robotic arm) are available for large-scale construction suitable
for Mosul and Ramadi’s climatic and ground conditions? b. What are the space, energy, and terrain preparation requirements for setting up the 3D printing equipment on-site? 2. Material
Suitability and Source ability: a. What construction materials (e.g., cementitious mixtures) are compatible with the proposed 3D printing technology? b. Can these materials be sourced
locally in Iraq, or would they need to be imported? What are the sustainability characteristics of these materials (e.g., thermal performance, embodied carbon)? 3. Housing Output and
Capacity: a. What is the average time and cost to produce a single housing unit of approximately 60–70 m² using 3D printing including mobilization and demobilization? 4. Power and
Labor Requirements: a. What are the energy needs of the equipment, and can the system operate using solar power or hybrid solutions in remote areas? b. What are the training needs for
local operators and technicians to ensure safe and efficient usage? 5. Standards and Durability: a. Are the printed structures compliant with Iraqi national construction codes or
international standards for structural integrity, insulation, and seismic performance? b. What is the expected lifespan and maintenance requirement of a typical 3D-printed house? 6.
Additional Information: a. Suppliers are encouraged to attach brochures, technical specifications, photos of prior projects, and references for similar deployments in post-conflict or
developing country contexts.