Intelligent buildings for intelligent people A concept

Abstract

The past decade has seen unparalleled evolution in the field of Materials engineering. Largely due to the unique properties seen in materials in the nanoscale relative to their macroscopic counterparts, nanomaterials as an example can be used to enhance tensile strength, insulation and are biomimicable. These properties combined with integrated structural monitoring and diagnostics systems are set to revolutionize the construction industry. Current research shows the inclusion of self healing properties, bringing these endeavors full cycle. Structural integrity is a key facet of building maintenance which historically has been evaluated on the basis of empirical studies stemming from lifecycle analysis of the concerned structure. The associated costs, lead times and lost revenue due to these activities can be mitigated by using materials which are engineered to report the parameters of concern to building monitoring systems. These systems can be the resultant of nanocomposite materials which are self organizing in nature, in turn forming interrogation capable grids. Dielectric and complex impedance measurements of these grids will be sampled through an analog to digital conversion interface linking the captured data on to the building management system. Alerts can be issued in real time when material boundaries are crossed, indicating impeding structural changes. Constants associated with the nanocomposite materials will set the thresholds for the alerts. The captured raw data would have the ability to monitor parameters such as vibration, stress/stain (piezoelectric materials) and thermal gradients (temperature coefficient of complex impedance). Furthermore, materials such as TiO2 facilitate photocatalysis, where the free radicals can be used for the oxidization of organic matter resulting in self cleaning surfaces. Anatase titanium dioxide can also be used in the form of a composite addition to cement for Bio mimicking structures to be used to offset our carbon footprint. Although yields of such activities remain low, the research too is in its infancy. By monitoring the redox reactions of these materials in the form mentioned above, it will be possible to observe the conversion efficiency as live “heat map”, resulting in much needed empirical data. Reportedly, the use of TiO2 has been used to control the growth of biological matter. As deterioration of structures due to biological matter is immense, these properties will allow for the control and monitoring of the design and environmental parameters which facilitate their growth. Macroscopically the construction industry is poised to benefit greatly by these immediate changes that nanotechnology has brought to the materials engineering. Resultant structures would encompass the low carbon footprint which is expected and sought after in the current climate as well as the economic and safety benefits inherent of such activities. This paper reviews a range of concepts and technologies capable of harmonizing built environment and the state of the art in monitoring and energy capture.