Nanotechnology

Concrete is a macro-material strongly influenced by its nano-properties.The addition of nano particles to cement based materials can control the degradation of the calcium-silicatehydrate reaction caused by calcium leaching in water, blocking water penetration and leading to improvements in durability. Nano-sensors have a great potential to be used in concrete structures for quality control and durability monitoring.With nanomaterials increased material functionality,it may be possible in some cases to replace toxic materials and still achieve the desired functionality (in terms of electrical conductivity, material strength, heat transfer, etc.), often with other life-cycle benefits in terms of material and energy use.