The 3rd International Symposium on Nanotechnology in Construction (NICOM 3) follows the highly successful NICOM 1 (Paisley, UK 2003) and NICOM 2 (Bilbao, Spain 2005) Symposia. The NICOM3 symposium was held in Prague, Czech Republic from May 31 to June 2, 2009 under the auspices of the Czech Technical University in Prague. It was a cross-disciplinary event, bringing together R&D experts and users from different fields all with interest in nanotechnology and construction. The conference was aimed at:

• Understanding of internal structures of existing construction materials at nano-scale
• Modification at nano-scale of existing construction materials.
• Production and properties of nanoparticulate materials, nanotubes and novel polymers.
• Modeling and simulation of nanostructures.
• Instrumentation, techniques and metrology at nano-scale.
• Health and safety issues and environmental impacts related to nanotechnology during research, manufacture and product use. Review of current legislation.
• Societal and commercial impacts of nanotechnology in construction, their predictions and analysis.

The importance of nanotechnology related research and development has become recognised worldwide. Substantial public and private investment is now being ploughed into research and development in a number of industrial sectors, where nanotechnology has become established and has led to new commercial products. The construction industry, having major economic significance with nano-scale research and development which is only emerging, offers a wide scope for exploitation of nanotechnology. With international contributions from experts in the field, Nanotechnology in Construction amalgamates previously fragmented research and emerging trends. It reflects the inherent multi-disciplinary nature of nano-scale research in construction and contributions cover a wide spectrum, from highly scientific investigations to futuristic applications. The book is organised into four broad sections, the first reviews and analyses the prospects of exploitation of nanotechnology in construction, the second discusses novel tools and their capabilities, the final two sections show existing significant products where nanotechnology has been already been exploited or where product development is under-way. Nanotechnology in Construction will appeal to researchers already working in this field as well as those wishing to enter it. It will also inform governmental and other funding agencies of the most promising future directions and their related timescales. Practical applications are considered and explanations of the underlying basics are given, raising awareness and understanding of what nanotechnology can offer to construction professionals in general.

The 3rd International Symposium on Nanotechnology in Construction (NICOM 3) follows the highly successful NICOM 1 (Paisley, UK 2003) and NICOM 2 (Bilbao, Spain 2005) Symposia. The NICOM3 symposium was held in Prague, Czech Republic from May 31 to June 2, 2009 under the auspices of the Czech Technical University in Prague. It was a cross-disciplinary event, bringing together R&D experts and users from different fields all with interest in nanotechnology and construction. The conference was aimed at: Understanding of internal structures of existing construction materials at nano-scale Modification at nano-scale of existing construction materials. Production and properties of nanoparticulate materials, nanotubes and novel polymers. Modeling and simulation of nanostructures. Instrumentation, techniques and metrology at nano-scale. Health and safety issues and environmental impacts related to nanotechnology during research, manufacture and product use. Review of current legislation. Societal and commercial impacts of nanotechnology in construction, their predictions and analysis.

Glassfibre reinforced concrete (GRC) is the most complex material widely used in current construction practice. It is an unusual composite, in which both the matrix and the reinforcement themselves are composites. This book provides guidance on the properties, its specification, testing and the latest methods for efficient production. Detailed information is presented about the unique aspects of the internal structure and fracture mechanisms of GRC and how the latest advances in nanotechnology are leading towards a fuller understanding of the rational design of GRC and the potential for further improvement of properties beyond those used in contemporary construction practice. GRC is already firmly established as the high-tech material of choice for architects and designers and recent decades have witnessed a rapid increase in production of GRC world-wide. However, to provide the full picture and encompass the most recent developments in GRC and how it can be exploited in major projects, a substantial part of the book is made up of case studies. GRC has been always a very versatile material; however, its range of practical applications has grown significantly. From small, simple items (flowerpots, drainage channels, window sills, etc.) to large-scale, high-tech iconic projects from leading architects, where GRC has to cope with the highest demands regarding structural complexity, freedom of shape, striking appearance combined with durability and overall quality and excellent environmental performance. The composite is well used in the reconstruction of complex historic facades and GRC has moved beyond construction into the domain of art and interior decorations and furniture. The case studies show numerous examples of such designs and products, including recently developed large double-curved panels with unusual surfaces and strong colours, and selfcleaning and photocatalytic (air-cleaning) e-GRC.

During the last decade, concrete technology has made an enormous advance through the introduction of self-compacting concrete. This application of nanotechnology in construction provides benefits from the perspective of materials technology and environmental protection and is presenting diverse opportunities to engineers and architects alike. Good quality concrete is compacted, traditionally by vibration. This book defines the key properties that make fresh concrete self-compacting and outlines test methods for its assessment. It covers the basic principles and underlying scientific theory, practical advice for production of SCC and its use in construction practice, and is illustrated by practical case studies and applications. All stages of the self-compacting concrete construction process are reviewed, from selection of materials, mix design and mixing process to transport, placing and finishing. The range of benefits offered go beyond fundamental aspects of concrete quality and productivity; it includes a major improvement in the health and safety of workers.Reductions of noise levels on construction sites, together with utilisation of inorganic industrial wastes such as quarry dusts are additional benefits. Information necessary for maximising the benefits offered by self-compacting concrete is provided, with an emphasis on an integrated approach, in which SCC is already selected in the design stage. Novel structural elements become feasible, in part due to the facility to pump under pressure, and management of the construction process can be adjusted to minimise costs. Significant completed projects are described which illustrate the potential benefits and key aspects of the new self-compacting concrete technology in practice.