THE ROLE OF NANOTECHNOLOGY IN ENHANCING THE DURABILITY AND PERFORMANCE OF CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS

Abstract

Nanotechnology is an emerging technology that has become a new opportunity in the construction industry offering new opportunities to prepare materials in better and more long-lasting ways. This paper looks at the implications of the changes introduced by nanotechnology to conventional construction materials in terms of mechanical strength, durability and the overall performance. The experimental results indicated that incorporation of nanomaterials such as nano-silica, nano-titania, carbon nanotubes and graphene exhibited remarkable enhanced compressive, tensile, and flexural strengths due to the increase in microstructural density and bonds between interfaces. It was also revealed that the porosity, water absorption, and permeability were significantly decreased which increased the resistance of the material to chemical attack, chloride penetration, and environmental damage. Functional properties such as self-cleaning, enhanced thermal conductivity and resistance to microbial growth were also functional in nanomodified materials. It can be seen that the outcomes of nanotechnology do not only enhance the strength and durability of building material but it is also environmentally friendly, as it enables the material to last longer and require less maintenance. It is shown in the research that construction materials based on nanotechnology have a great potential in the development of resilient high performance and sustainable infrastructure.