Chapter 6: The Application of Nanomaterials in the Built Environment

While nanotechnology has been traditionally applied in the fields of material sciences, medicine and microelectronics, its potential applications in the built environment have been growing. The application of nanomaterials in construction and building materials might be the key to replicating features of natural systems that have been improved to perfection over millions of years. It can also help to achieve pollution control by reducing the carbon footprint of buildings and promoting sustainability in the long term. This chapter reviews current knowledge on the application of nanotechnology in certain building components such as windows, brick, stone and wood. In addition, the short- and long-term effects of nanomaterials on the environment and human health will be addressed. Lastly, this chapter will also identify the future challenges and major obstacles for the application of nanomaterials in the built environment.