Infrastructure

Many recent research studies show that the use of polymer nanocomposites in conventional construction materials leads to better concrete, asphalt, coatings, insulating materials, etc. Potential advantages of polymer nanocomposite are high specific strength and stiffness, durability, good fatigue performance, versatile fabrication, and lower maintenance costs, and these win the attention of structure and construction engineers.  Nanotechnology offers solutions by improving the insulating properties, weather protection or the materials stability. For instance, an insulating material called aerogel, composed of silica nanoparticles separated by nanopores, is mostly air, making it an excellent insulator. To solve the problem of heat loss in buildings, companies are developing windows with aerogel between the window panes. Nanopores and nanotubes are also used to improve the construction materials properties by stopping the cracks from forming or reducing tile cracking. Furthermore, antibacterial activity of nanomaterials is useful to inhibits the growth of mildew and bacteria on constructions.
The most effective nanofillers used in this sector include nanoclay, carbon nanotubes, graphene, nanosilica, and TiO2. Nanoclay, carbon nanotubes and nanosilica seem to be ahead in the use in polymer based composites under this sector.

Application	Product or article	Improved properties	Nanomaterials
Infrastructures	Construction materials Aerogel Concrete without voids Leveling compound with nanopores and rubber granules	Insulation Strength Stiffness Durability Fatigue performance Versatile fabrication Lower maintenance costs Lower heat lost Lower permeability Antibacterial activity UV protection	Nanoclays Carbon nanotubes Graphene Nanosilica Titanium oxide Silver Less chance of tile cracking