The kick-off meeting of the collaborative project between CSIR-Structural Engineering Research Centre (CSIR-SERC), Chennai, and M/s Merlin Automation Solutions Pvt. Ltd., Chennai, was held on 1st July 2026 at CSIR-SERC, Taramani, Chennai. The collaborative project aims to develop specialized concrete mixes tailored for 3D printing applications and to conduct seismic evaluations of G+1 (ground plus one story) 3D-printed concrete buildings, thereby strengthening the scientific foundation for the safe and wider adoption of 3D concrete printing technology in India. During the meeting, both partners exchanged views and deliberated on the current challenges faced by the concrete 3D printing industry and discussed the way forward for further commercialization of the technology, making it more viable and rewarding for the construction sector.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. N. Anandavalli, Director, CSIR-SERC, said, "This collaboration reflects CSIR-SERC's commitment to translating cutting-edge research into industry-ready solutions, and the seismic evaluation of 3D-printed buildings will be a significant step towards their safe adoption in the Indian construction sector."

 

Mrs. Saranya Subramaniyan, CEO, Merlin Automation Solutions Pvt. Ltd., stated, "Partnering with CSIR-SERC gives us access to world-class structural engineering expertise, and together we are confident of taking 3D concrete printing technology from promise to large-scale commercial reality in India."

Dr. Parivallal S, Scientist-G & Advisor (Management), CSIR-SERC, Dr. K. Sathish Kumar, Scientist-G and Head, Business and Knowledge Management Division (BKMD), Dr. S. Bhaskar, Scientist-G and Head, Advanced Materials Laboratory, Dr. Prabhat Ranjan Prem, Scientist-F and Project Leader, along with Mr. Vijaya Bhaskara G S, Scientist-E, and Ms. Chitra Sankaran from BKMD, participated in the deliberations.

 

Both organizations expressed their keen interest in establishing a long-term, mutually beneficial collaboration to advance indigenous development and the commercialization of 3D concrete printing technology, in alignment with the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat.

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TV/SH

 

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