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Nano-Materials For Architecture: Department of Architecture, University of Palermo, Palermo 90128, Italy
Nano-Materials For Architecture: Department of Architecture, University of Palermo, Palermo 90128, Italy
Nano-Materials For Architecture: Department of Architecture, University of Palermo, Palermo 90128, Italy
doi: 10.17265/1934-7359/2017.12.001
D DAVID PUBLISHING
Francesca Scalisi
Department of Architecture, University of Palermo, Palermo 90128, Italy
Abstract: The nanotechnology can provide radical and systematic innovation in architecture. The extent to which, and the manner in
which architects, engineers, researchers, builders and producers embrace this innovation will determine the future of architectural
operations. The introduction of new materials and technologies in architecture has always led to linguistic and typological
modifications. It was true even in the past, let’s just think of the consequences of the industrial revolution. This paper presents some
nano-materials for architecture, that can contribute to the energy efficiency of buildings: self-repairing concrete, insulation
nano-coating, photo-catalytic cements, anti-stain coating. If we consider new materials and new technologies as a determining factor
for a new architecture, then the innovations in the field of concrete, glass, lighting, prompted by nanotechnology, will also influence
the language of architecture.
only to intervene in these systems, but also to create The so-called lotus-effect is the capacity, observed
new ones. For example, by studying the molecular in lotus leaves, of a material to keep itself clean
composition of lotus leaves, scientists have managed to autonomously. Water never adheres to lotus leaves (in
create a new generation of water-resistant materials fact, the leaves are always dry), but runs off in
[7]. numerous little drops that form as a result of the high
1064 Nano-materials for Architecture
surface tension on the leaf, and takes with it the dirt and underlying surface is 3% of the apparent one, and
small insects to be found on the leaf. This is possible therefore the weight of the drop causes it to run off.
because the lotus leaves have a layer of The roughness of the leaf’s surface is also very
hydrophobic-wax crystals of nanometric dimensions useful for its self-cleaning effect, since the drops roll
(Fig. 2). On this scale, rougher surfaces prove to be around, whereas on a smooth surface they would slide
more hydrophobic than smooth ones, because the off, resulting in a less effective cleaning operation.
actual contact area between the drop of water and the Experts are applying the lotus-leaf’s water-repellent
properties in a wide range of products and materials, harmless compost (Fig. 3). Photo-catalysis is therefore
from self-cleaning windows to motor-car wax. an accelerator of processes of oxidisation already
Nature provides innumerable lessons that could be existing in nature and it encourages a swifter
applied to future projects, processes and materials; for decomposition of pollutants, preventing their
example, via a nanoscale examination of the structure accumulation [8, 9].
of the gecko’s feet scientists have created materials Self-cleaning surfaces have become widespread
with extraordinary adhesive properties. All the lessons thanks to photo-catalytic coating containing
provided by nature will help us create more efficient nano-particles of titanium dioxide (TiO2) (Fig. 4).
systems, materials and devices than those available The principal effect of these coatings is a
today. Photo-catalytic cements are another category of considerable reduction in the degree of adherence of
very common nano-material, photo-catalysis being a dirt to surfaces. It is important to note that the term
natural phenomenon, closely linked to chlorophyll “self-cleaning” in this context is misleading and does
synthesis. In fact, there is a substance called a not mean, as is often thought, that a surface should not
photo-catalyser, which, through the action of natural or be cleaner, but that the interval between the cycles of
artificial light, sets in motion a vigorous oxidative cleaning should be significantly extended,
process that results in the transformation of harmful which is particularly important in the maintenance
organic and inorganic substances into absolutely buildings.
This results in a reduction in the utilisation of factors that might impede the adoption of
detergents, with a consequent reduction in nanotechnology on a large scale: above all the high cost
environmental pollution, less wear on materials and a of nano-products compared to conventional ones.
saving on personnel costs. Therefore, generally Nanotechnology does represent a relatively recent
speaking, self-cleaning photo-catalytic surfaces require accomplishment and prices are destined to fall, as is
less maintenance. usually the case, over the course of time, with all new
A further advantage is that there is better light technology. Secondly, the building market is extremely
transmission through glass, since daylight is not conservative and therefore tends to proceed cautiously
obscured by dirt; consequently the costs of energy for in adopting new technologies; those in the trade seem
lighting can be reduced. Photo-catalytic cements also to know very little about nanotechnology and its
have a purifying effect on the air; this effect has led to potential implications for the building sector.
these cements being given the name smog-eaters, Knowledge and skills are still too fragmentary to
attracting considerable interest from the public. enable it to spread extensively in the building sector.
In fact, when applied to floors, road-surfaces and Moreover, from the point of view of demand, there will
façades, they could provide a notable contribution to be a certain reluctance regarding the introduction of
the fight against atmospheric pollution. These nanotechnological materials until convincing
self-cleaning façade systems are to be found in several documentation is produced regarding its functionality
buildings, such as Richard Meier’s church, Chiesa del and the long-term effects. Finally, there is considerable
Giubileo, in Rome (Fig. 5), Hopkins Architects’ anxiety about the general public’s seeming reluctance
Marunouchi Building in Tokyo (Fig. 6), Herzog & de to accept nanotechnology.
Meuron’s Bond Street Apartment Building in New The companies that choose to use nanotechnology
York (Fig. 7) [10]. for their new products, or to improve existing products,
Nor should we forget the role of anti-stain coating, are certainly faced by a challenge emerging from the
as well as scratch-resistant, anti-misting, anti-frosting, on-going debate regarding the risks of nanotechnology.
anti- microbe and anti-corrosion coating. In most cases, time and financial resources will have to
be invested in the development phases; however, one
4. Conclusions
might suppose that the future value added will richly
In spite of its enormous potential, there are several compensate this investment. Whoever activates
Nano-materials for Architecture 1067
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[5] Zhu, W., Gibbs, J. C., and Bartos, P. J. M. 2004.
demonstrates an entrepreneurial spirit, but will also
“Applications of Nanotechnology in
enjoy a competitive advantage for a long time to come. Construction—Current Status and Future Potential.” In
Improvements in the quality and functioning of the Nanotechnology in Construction, edited by Bartos, P. J.
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[6] Torgal, T. P. 2016. “Introduction to Nano- and
quantities of material, will certainly make it highly
Biotech-Based Materials for Energy Building
competitive in the immediate future. Efficiency.” In Nano and Biotech Based Materials for
Energy Building Efficiency, edited by Torgal, T. P.,
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