Implementation of nanotechnology in improving the environmental compliance of construction projects in the United States

Nanotechnology, defined as the science of very small matter called nanomaterial, comprises the study of chemical and physical properties of particles which are structured in sizes ranging from 1 to 100nm. At this size range, nanomaterial exhibits superior chemical and physical characteristics as compared to those displayed while existing in normal size. To date, multiple nanotechnology research centers within the United States are investigating the potential use of different types of nanoparticles as titanium dioxide (TiO2) in the construction industry to attain superior characteristics of building materials, improve their rating as environmentally friendly material, and improve the overall LEED rating of construction projects.The major impediments to the widespread implementation of nanotechnology include high nanomaterial cost, lack of industrial experience, and absence of standard specifications for building materials incorporating nanoparticles. This research article presents a research effort performed to improve the ability of construction material to attain self-cleaning properties through the incorporation of TiO2 particles in the concrete surface layers. Nanosized TiO2 particles were able to dissolve induced stains in the presence of sunlight. This chemical reaction, known as photocatalysis, can be successfully used in improving the environmental compliance of construction projects at the US market.