Nanotechnology in construction engineering

In general, nanotechnology comprises the development, production and application of materials yielding novel functionalities and performances. In the construction industry and materials research nanotechnology can be utilized for a variety of areas of application, such as the optimisation of material properties, the prevention of damages and the implementation of new functionalities. This article gives an overview of areas in the construction sector where nanotechnology gains prominently of significance, such as cementitious binders, facades, windows and glazing, fire protection, interior decoration and infrastructure buildings. Furthermore, actual scientific research activities in the field of building materials on a nano-scale performed by the Federal Institute for Materials Research and Testing (BAM) in Berlin are being presented. The research activities relate to the modification of hydrate phases in ultra high performance concrete (UHPC) and to the enhancement of performance of anti-graffiti-systems.