Nanotechnology and building construction: Towards effective stakeholder engagement

Abstract

Innovative construction materials and techniques are imminent to survive the climate change associated extreme weather impacts. Nanotechnology in construction sector improves the comfortability and quality of life by enhancing the mechanical properties of cement and concrete, stronger and lighter structural composites, low maintenance coating, reducing the thermal transfer rate and/or insulation, and construction-related nano-sensors. Various types of nanoparticles used in construction sector are Nano-titania, Carbon nanotubes, Nano-silica, Copper and Clay nanoparticles, Zycosoil, and nanostructured metals such as Nano-ferric oxide, and Nano-aluminium oxide. Advantages of nanomaterials application in building construction are displayed in materials such as concrete, steel, timber, glass, insulations, coatings, energy and nanosensors. The objective of this study is to analyze the nanomaterials application in construction industry besides environmental, health and social impacts. The novelty of this study includes stakeholder engagement matrix for nanomaterials in construction sector. Although nanotechnology is in its infancy, there is a need to develop a framework for nanotechnology regulation especially in construction sector due to its impact on climate change and vice versa due to the significant contribution of construction sector to greenhouse gas emissions. Therefore, a nanotechnology regulation framework has been proposed for identification and effective stakeholder engagement. Implications of nanotechnology on construction materials, narrowing the nano-divide, scope for sustainable development and concepts of implementation have been discussed in detail.