Nanotechnology Offers Construction Materials

The research aims to review the current nanotechnology programs and to identify application areas that could benefit from a close collaboration between the engineering and construction industry and the research community. The research will review nanotechnology programs and summarize the existing knowledge and understanding of nanotechnology, explore existing nanotechnology ideas, needs, and products in various industry fields, learn from their history and experiences during product implementation, and quantify their potential value and implementation for construction. Benefits and limitations of selected nanotechnology applications will be evaluated for high impact potential in construction.

There is considerable interest in academia, the investment community and among manufacturers about the exciting opportunities offered by nanoscale materials. Although many applications for nanotechnology remain theoretical (such as the fabled “space elevator”), construction is one area where several  applications have already emerged.

 
Nanomaterial producers promise numerous benefits from nano-enhanced construction products, including:

• low maintenance windows
• long lasting scratch resistant floors
• super strong structural components
• improved longer lasting house paint
• healthier and safer indoor climates
• self cleaning skyscrapers
• antimicrobial steel surfaces
• improved industrial building maintenance
• lower energy consuming buildings
• longer lasting roads and bridges

The use of nanomaterials allows product manufacturers to offer longer product warranties. Building owners are expected to enjoy lower maintenance costs while consumers can look forward to houses that maintain themselves.

Coatings products are expected to constitute the largest application for nanomaterials in construction. Architectural paints, water sealers and deck treatments, and treatments applied during fabrication, such as scratch-resistant coatings on vinyl or wood flooring, all present substantial market opportunities for nanomaterials. According to the report, performance attributes that make nanomaterials useful in coatings applications include transparency, photo reactivity, UV blocking, and stain and odor resistance. Additionally, they can be used in coatings that create self-cleaning surfaces similar to those now being engineered into window glass and plumbing fixtures.