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Phone: 613-993-2607
Fax: 613-952-7673
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1200 Montreal Road
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K1A 0R6
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Nanotechnology Research at NRC-IRC
Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) image of a calcium silicate hydrate polymer nanocomposite
Nanotechnology is engineering at the nanoscale to produce materials and devices with unique properties that cannot be achieved using traditional materials. NRC-IRC recognizes that nanotechnology is a key technology for the future of the construction industry. Researchers at NRC-IRC are developing nanotechnology across a broad range of applications, focusing on the Institute's key areas of expertise, including concrete and bituminous materials, fire risk management, insulation and indoor air quality. NRC-IRC's strength in nanotechnology comes from its multi-disciplinary research team, which has experience both in creating new materials and product development. NRC-IRC nanotechnology researchers include chemists, materials scientists, physicists, civil engineers and mechanical engineers, with expertise in a wide range of research areas.
The Nanoscale
Nanotechnology and nanoscience take place at the scale of 1 to 100 nanometers. One nanometer is one billionth of a meter, one hundred thousand times smaller than the diameter of a human hair. At the nanoscale, matter shows unique characteristics, different from either classical behaviour at larger scales or behaviour at the atomic level. Nanoscience studies these unique characteristics while nanotechnology applies the knowledge developed through nanoscience to make new products.
Research areas
Facilities
- Material Emissions Laboratory
- Materials Characterization
- Microscopy Laboratory
- Volatile Organic Compounds Analysis Laboratory (VOCAL)
Benefits of Nanotechnology
Nanotechnology will produce benefits in two ways – by making existing products and processes more cost effective, durable and efficient and by creating entirely new products.
For Materials Producers
For the producers of construction materials, nanotechnology means a portfolio of specialized products that brings greater profit margins, produces competitive advantages and provides export markets.
For the Architecture, Engineering and Construction industry
Nanotechnology based construction products will save time and money through improved ease of use and simplified construction processes. Stronger, tougher and lighter materials will create new architectural and design possibilities.
For Building Owners and Occupants
Owners will benefit from longer lasting and more cost efficient structures. Building occupants will breathe cleaner air, benefit from greater fire resistance in construction materials and improved smoke detectors. Operating costs will be reduced through improvements in energy efficiency and insulation, and through reduced repair costs.
Contact Us
For information on specific projects, contact our nanotechnology researchers (below). To discuss research, partnership and licensing opportunities, contact NRC-IRC's Marketing Office.
Bitumen
Dr. Jean-Francois Masson
Cement and concrete
Dr. Jon Makar
Dr. Laila Raki
Dr. Taijiro Sato
Corrosion
Dr. Jieying Zhang
Fire Protection
Dr. Joseph Su
Indoor Air Quality
Dr. Doyun Won
Insulation
Dr. Phalguni Mukhopadhyaya
Related Information
Nano and microstructured construction materials: the case of bitumen
Nanotechnology for High Performance Thermal Insulation
