Material Follows Function: Nanotechnology and Sustainability in Steel Building Constructions

Nanotechnology has introduced different manipulation processes on materials used in building construction. These processes are in order to enhance the existed materials, creating desirable properties, and improving environmental effects of construction industry. It seems we can now use the slogan Materials Follow Function and in this paradigm, construction industry can experience phenomenon other than its conventional one. In this research, enhancements in steel, as a major construction element, with the help of nanotechnology have been investigated. Strength, corrosion resistance, heat-affected zone, and fatigue are the enhanced properties of steel which are probed in this research. After showing the advantages, disadvantages or affairs that need special concern have been discussed. Finally, the parameters of sustainability in steel constructions in which nanotechnology is used are evaluated.