Opportunities & Challenges for Use of Nanotechnology in Cement-Based Materials

Dr Rakesh Kumar, Scientist; Dr Renu Mathur, Scientist & HoD and Dr Arun Kumar Mishra, Scientist, Rigid Pavements Division, Central Road Research Institute (CRRI), New Delhi

Exploring and manipulating inner characteristics at nano-meter scale of matter in order to obtain exceptional properties and performance of materials is one of the most active research areas of the present time. The potential for application of nanotechnology in cement-based materials is huge. Currently, applications of nanotechnology in cement-based materials in several areas including construction of concrete roads are being explored. Nanotechnology has immense potential to result in a new generation of concrete, stronger and more durable, with desired stress-strain behavior and possibly with the whole range of newly introduced properties. Enhanced flexural behavior of the concrete may lead a reduction in the concrete slab thickness used in the construction of concrete pavements. This paper presents brief information on nanotechnology research opportunities and challenges in cement-based materials.