Nanotechnology in Construction Materials - NICOM-8

Nanomodification and nanoengineering have demonstrated the potential for dramatically improving the tensile strength, toughness, ductility, and durability of modern construction materials such as concrete, structural steel, polymers and composites, asphalt, glass, and ceramic materials. The NICOM Symposia were designed to explore the impact of nanotechnology on the behavior and performance of construction materials and to envision their future and applications. As we look back on 20 years of accomplishment in this field, we must also look into the future to envision the needs of a changing global economy and ecology.
While progress has been made in optimizing building materials to maximize production efficiency and lifecycle and to reduce energy inputs and carbon outputs, the demands of the future require even further progress. In order to truly provide for the needs of the future, we must endeavor not just for carbon neutrality but also for a net-negative carbon footprint throughout humankind’s most massively produced materials necessary for buildings and infrastructure. Decarbonization through nanotechnology offers a strong path forward, from the use of clean energy in the production of building materials to carbon sink applications.

• Production, functionalization, and performance of nanomaterials: nanoparticles, nanotubes, and 2D nanostructures for application in construction;

• Investigation of the internal structure and properties of construction materials at the nanoscale and the relation of these parameters to performance at the macroscale;

• Instrumentation, techniques, and metrology for nanoscale investigation;

• Nanomodification of composite materials, including functional films and nano-coatings;

• Nano-assembly and “bottom-up” design;

• Modeling and simulation from nano to macro;
• Nanotechnology for high-trength, high-performance, and ultra-highperformance applications;
• Nanotechnology for fiber-reinforced composites;
• Nanomaterials for the ultimate enhancement of durability;

• Biomimetic, nanocomposite, and metamaterials;

• Self-repairing and self-healing applications;

• Smart and intelligent infrastructure materials, including nanosensors for real-time monitoring of structural health in buildings;

• Photocatalysis, air-purifying, and self-cleaning applications;

• Nanomaterials for digital construction and 3D printing;

• Nanotechnology and nanomaterials for low carbon footprint and netnegative infrastructure;

• Nanotechnology for energy harvesting and renewable energy;

• Nanotechnology-enabled green materials and by-product utilizatione for new levels of sustainability;

• Field application of nanomaterials and nanoengineered construction materials;

• Health, safety, and environmental effects related to the application of nanomaterials.

DEADLINES
Submission of 250-word abstract: November 24, 2023
Notification of acceptance: December 15, 2023
Submission of manuscript: December 20, 2023
Early registration: by March 29, 2024