Nanotechnology: The Path to the Future

Nanotechnology isn't new; what is new is the way that it is being used. Nanotechnology is currently being studied to figure out how it can be applied to civil engineering. There are a number of areas that it can be applied to, and its potential applications are endless. As it says in the NBM Media article, nanotechnology “offers better built, long lasting, cleaner, safer, and smarter products.”

Source: http://thedakepage.blogspot.com/2010/06

A nanometer is one billionth of a meter; that is very, very tiny. It turns out that if materials are manipulated on that small of a level, there are huge benefits. For instance, carbon nanotubes (CNT), which are tubes that have a diameter of one nanometer and a length of several millimeters, can increase the strength of steel by five times. Nanotechnology can also improve other areas, such as with the use of titanium dioxide (TiO₂). When added to paint, cement, windows or other mediums, it gives them sterilizing and deodorizing properties. Additionally, TiO₂ becomes hydrophilic when exposed to UV. This quality creates anti-fogging and self-cleaning (which would be especially useful for windows).

Source: www.nanotechbuzz.com

There is so much potential for nanotechnology in the field of civil engineering. Two of the main areas that it is being applied to are concrete and steel; in both, it has led to great increases in strength and durability. In the area of cement, nanoparticles improve the molecular structure, leading to improved properties. If TiO₂ is added, it offers self-cleaning for buildings and signs, which translates to less maintenance. If CNT are incorporated into cement, it increases compressive and flexural strengths, which equates to safer structures. As for steel, nanoparticles lower the unevenness of the surface. This causes a decrease in the amount of fatigue cracking in structures like the frames of bridges and buildings. When CNT are added to steel, it creates stronger cables, which will result in a lower cost and shorter construction time. Overall, “advancements in this technology would lead to increased safety, less need for monitoring and more efficient material use,” according to Niranjana.

The drawback of nanotechnology is its cost. Nanotechnology is so small that it is difficult to manufacture; thus, it is not cheap. Like any new technology, it's expected to initially be expensive, but as time progresses and we learn more about nanotechnology, the price will become more reasonable.

This type of technology will lead to great improvements to society. The only limit for application of nanotechnology is our imagination. Nanotechnology can lead to the creation of all of the following:

Source: http://www.secureglass.com.au/tag/

       ·    Self-cleaning windows on tall buildings

       ·    Sidewalks and walls that don’t dull in color

       ·    Street signs that never get dirty

       ·    Bridges that repair themselves

       ·    Steel cables that are tougher

       ·    Paint that insulates and repels water

       ·    Concrete that is more durable

And the list could go on. However, to make all of these a reality, the proper research has to be done. Engineers have already made vital headway in the study of nanotechnology. The next step is to bring it to life. Therefore, it is imperative that civil engineers have the opportunity to continue the exploration of nanotechnologies and that construction starts to incorporate their use. Nanotechnology has great potential, but we can only make that envisioned future a reality if we are willing to invest in it.