I am also exploring the idea for a SciFi setting. The solar sintering by Markus Kayser looks neet, but it is not practical in its current shape, it does not pr

I am also exploring the idea for a SciFi setting. The solar sintering by Markus Kayser looks neet, but it is not practical in its current shape, it does not produce useful outcome. Too brittle. The main problem is, the heat from the sun is not cohaerent. There are fluctations in the sky for example, that will make the heat changes drastically. (there is a paper about this from a professional solar furnace, I need to find again) Reading tip, "The man who sold the moon", from Cory Doctorow. Which also explores the idea of solar 3D sintering (but ignores the limitations). So I do strongly believe, the whole concept has big potential, beyond entertaining SciFi - it is just not so easy. I think a way to go, could be to have the base load directly from the sun - and then a laser for the exact heat where it is need.