A systematic review: Enhancing cementitious composites through additively manufactured lattice structures

Additive manufacturing (AM) has revolutionized the fabrication of complex geometries, enabling efficient material use and innovative applications across sectors such as biomedical, automotive, and aerospace. A significant development is the emergence of 3D-printed lattice structures (LSs), which combine lightweight design with tailored mechanical properties, making them highly suitable for civil engineering applications, including bridge elements, façade systems, and reinforcement of concrete structures. Recent research has increasingly explored the integration of LSs into cementitious composites, though findings remain diverse and primarily experimental. This paper provides a comprehensive review of lattice structures in cement-based materials, examining both their classifications – by dimensionality (2D vs. 3D) and configuration (cellular vs random) – and their role in enhancing ductility, reducing weight, and improving overall performance. It also surveys materials commonly used in 3D printing, such as polymers (PLA, PEEK, ABS), ceramics, and composites, along with relevant printing techniques. Evidence demonstrates that LSs significantly improve the mechanical behavior of cementitious composites, transforming failure modes from brittle to ductile and increasing energy absorption. These findings highlight the potential of 3D-printed lattices as effective reinforcements, offering promising pathways for advancing structural performance in construction.