Exploring the adoption of 3D printed concrete for social housing in South Africa: a socio-technical and political economy perspective

Essa, Nabeela

Exploring the adoption of 3D printed concrete for social housing in South Africa: a socio-technical and political economy perspective

Thesis / Dissertation

2026

Publisher

University of Cape Town

Department

Graduate School of Business (GSB)

Faculty

Faculty of Commerce

Abstract

This study examines the potential of 3D printed concrete (3DPC) to help address South Africa's social housing crisis. Although 3DPC has advanced globally, its local adoption remains limited, raising questions about the socio-economic, political, and institutional factors shaping its diffusion. The research employs an interpretivist, inductive design using expert interviews to explore how society–technology relations may evolve in this context. Findings highlight opportunities for rapid, affordable housing delivery but also reveal barriers including land access, regulatory uncertainty, procurement constraints, labour displacement risks, and cultural resistance. The study makes both practical and theoretical contributions. Practically, it proposes a sequenced implementation roadmap that combines demonstration projects in social infrastructure with targeted incentives and reskilling initiatives. Theoretically, it applies and extends the integrated approach of Atteridge and Weitz (2017), combining Technological Innovation Systems (TIS) and Political Economy Interpretive (PEI) frameworks within the broader Political Economy of Technology (PET) lens. In doing so, the study refines an established methodology for application in construction and social housing, advancing inclusive innovation scholarship whilst offering insights into the conditions shaping the adoption of 3DPC in South Africa.