NANOMATERIALS IN CIVIL ENGINEERING

Abstract

Nanotechnology has emerged as a strategic area for the advancement of civil engineering, offering solutions that significantly improve the performance of construction materials. This article presents an analysis of the main applications of nanomaterials in concrete, mortar, and coatings, highlighting their effects on the mechanical strength, durability, impermeability, and sustainability of structures. The most commonly used nanomaterials, such as nanosilica, titanium dioxide, carbon nanotubes, and metal nanoparticles, were discussed, as well as their mechanisms of action in the cementitious matrix. The results indicate that the incorporation of these nanoparticles contributes to microstructural refinement, reduced porosity, photocatalytic properties, and the potential for developing smart materials, such as self-healing concrete and self-sensing systems. However, technical and economic challenges still hinder their large-scale implementation, including high cost, lack of specific standardization, and uncertainties about environmental and toxicological impacts. It is concluded that nanomaterials represent a fundamental advance for civil engineering, with great potential to drive more efficient, durable, and sustainable construction practices, provided there is investment in research, regulations, and applied technologies.