3D Printed Stadiums

As Qatar looks forward to hosting the 2022 World Cup, scientists and engineers are exploring how to design stadiums that will endure the desert climate. To avoid the summer heat, the competition has been scheduled to take place in November. But winter poses other weather challenges, including sand storms, which need to be considered.

Planners are looking to build and/or renovate at least eight stadiums in preparation for the games, and 3D printing is playing a major role in architectural design. Stadium models are placed in a wind tunnel that simulates a sand storm using smoke-filled air. Lasers measure the turbulence at various points as the design is tweaked to minimize the impact of high, hot winds.

3D printing allows architects and engineers to design structures that will be usable year-round and well beyond 2022. In addition to making the stadiums more comfortable for players as well as fans, maintaining the architectural character of the buildings — such as the sweeping Bedouin tent design of the existing Al Bayt stadium — is a prime consideration.