Nanophase modification of concrete for Enhancement of microbial properties and durability: Present status and future scope

Concrete structures are widely used in civil engineering which a mixture of calcium oxides, hydroxides and carbonates with quartz minerals and water. It is alkaline in nature with pH range 11-13. Concrete normally used in construction has large variety in mix proportion as well as type of cementitious materials. The basic characteristics of concrete structures and materials can be altered by adding some nanomaterials to increase its mechanical properties and others parameters. Nanomaterials like Titanium oxide (TiO₂) can oxidize oxygen or organic materials which is having sterilizing, deodorizing and anti-fouling properties. Additionally as TiO₂ is exposed to UV light, it becomes increasingly hydrophilic, thus it can be used for self -cleaning properties. Self healing concrete could reduce the CO₂ emission that result from concrete production and also may lengthen the life of the concrete. Addition of nanomaterials into different concrete structures could improve its performance. The various test methods can be performed to check the durability of concrete structures and also antimicrobial properties can be enhanced.