Construction

Construction is an area in which nanotechnology can make a big difference. Indeed, some applications are already on the market. For example, in the environment section we look at new smart materials incorporating titanium dioxide nanoparticles that have given rise to self-cleaning windows, buildings and even roads (7000 square metres of road in Milan have been coated with these smart materials, which resulted in a 60% reduction in nitrogen dioxide levels).

Other nanomaterials are being incorporated in new construction materials to improve mechanical strength, durability and insulation, while at the same time decreasing the weight compared to traditional materials. For example, ceramic nanoparticles are being used in cement to increase their robustness.

Ambient sensor systems will be increasingly used in construction, to monitor a building’s environment including any mechanical stresses it is placed under.

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