Blockchain in the construction supply chain: systematic literature review

Abstract

The construction sector supply chain faces structural limitations, such as fragmentation and low integration among actors, which negatively affects project performance. In this situation, blockchain technology emerges as a possible alternative to address these challenges. This systematic review aims to recognize the impact of blockchain technology on the construction sector supply chain in terms of logistics operations, information exchange, and limitations to its implementation. The study uses the PICO approach and the PRISMA methodology for the rigorous collection, evaluation, and selection of relevant studies. The literature search was conducted in various academic databases such as Scopus, ScienceDirect, and Web of Science, obtaining a total of 374 documents, of which 31 original articles were selected after applying predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. The results show that blockchain technology contributes to information transparency, asset and process traceability, and data integrity and security. In addition, it improves coordination among supply chain participants through secure information exchange and the use of smart contracts, which strengthens trust and reduces disputes. However, challenges related to interoperability, scalability, and investment persist, preventing the effective implementation of blockchain. The findings also include a thematic map that identifies the main lines of research and highlights emerging and declining areas, proposing opportunities for future research.