Nanotechnology in Eco-Efficient Construction ― Materials, Processes and Applications

As the environmental impact of existing construction and building materials comes under increasing scrutiny, the search for more eco-efficient solutions has intensified. Nanotechnology offers great potential in this area and is already being widely used to great success. This book is an authoritative guide to the role of nanotechnology in the development of eco-efficient construction materials and sustainable construction.

Following an introduction to the use of nanotechnology in eco-efficient construction materials, part one considers such infrastructural applications as nanoengineered cement-based materials, nanoparticles for high-performance and self-sensing concrete, the use of nanotechnology to improve the bulk and surface properties of steel for structural applications and nanoclay-modified asphalt mixtures and safety issues relating to nanomaterials for construction applications. Part two discusses applications for building energy efficiency, including thin films and nanostructured coatings, switchable glazing technology and third generation photovoltaic (PV) cells, high-performance thermal insulation materials, and silica nanogel for energy-efficient windows. The focus of part is photocatalytic applications; chapters investigate nanoparticles for pollution control, self-cleaning and photosterilisation and the role of nanotechnology in manufacturing paints and purifying water for eco-efficient buildings.

Fernando Pacheco-Torgal is a Researcher in the Sustainable Construction Group in the Department of Civil Engineering at the University of Minho, Portugal.

Maria Vittoria Diamanti is Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering at the Politecnico di Milano, Italy.

Ali Nazari is Assistant Professor in the Department of Material Science and Engineering at the Islamic Azad University, Iran.

Claes-Goran Granqvist is Professor in the Department of Engineering Science at Uppsala University, Sweden.