Nanotechnology in Cement-Based Construction: Trends and Challenges

Dear Colleagues,

In the few last years, nanotechnology has experienced great development, due to new nanomaterials available in the market and the multifunctional applications of nano-modified composites in various fields of science and engineering. In particular, the construction field appears devoted to improving through the use of nanomaterials: improvements to physical, mechanical, thermal properties, or novel multifunctionalities, such as electromagnetic shielding, self-sensing, and self-healing capabilities, could increase the service life of structures and the comfort and the safety of their users. Among structural materials, cement-based materials can strongly benefit from nanotechnology due to their versatility and easiness of tailoring, and greatly boost their durability or mechanical, environmental, and energy performance.

This Special Issue will investigate the progress of new nanomaterials for cement-based composites and their applications in structures and infrastructures. Research about tailored nanoparticles and nano-modified cementitious composites are welcome, as well as laboratory/in situ investigations on elements or structures made of nanomaterials.

Potential topics include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Novel nanomaterials for civil engineering applications
• Nano cement-based composites with enhanced or novel capabilities (physical, chemical, mechanical, thermal, electrical, etc.)
• Innovative techniques to produce nano-modified or nano-added cementitious materials
• Mechanical properties of cement-based elements or structures produced by nanotechnology
• Electrical, optical, and thermal properties of cementitious nanocomposites
• Self-healing and monitoring properties of cement-based nanomodified materials and elements
• Structural and infrastructural applications of nano-modified cement-based composites for smart systems and smart cities
• Energy and environmental applications of cement-based nanomaterials
• Applications of nanomaterials in real cement-based constructions.

Dr. Antonella D'Alessandro
Guest Editor

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