Nanotechnology: Benefits, Barriers, and Impact on Construction

Nanotechnology research and product development is actively conducted in many industries, for example, in manufacturing, electronics, and health sectors. As many research studies show, the construction industry follows these trends, but does not take a leadership role in most of the current efforts in Nanotechnology. With proper knowledge about the products and techniques offered by nanotechnology, the construction industry has the potential to improve the efficiency of some of its own processes and offer better products to customers and clients. This research tries to understand nanotechnology in the context of construction and explores the current scenario of nanotechnology in the construction industry. In order to identify the potential benefits and existing barriers, an extensive literature review and survey were conducted, which is supplemented by several personal interviews. This paper also performed an impact analysis to evaluate existing and developing nanotechnology products and their applications in construction. Recommendations and guidelines for a path forward for nanotechnology in construction industry are provided.