Application of Nanoparticles in Construction Industries and Their Toxicity

Abstract

Global development is reflected in the growth of the construction field. To improve the construction related activity and impart the beneficial essence of current technology, nanoparticles are used by the industries at different stages. The size dependent properties of nanoparticles in the construction industry is considered for enhancing material strength, crack recovery, self-cleaning applications, antimicrobial coating, energy conservation and restoration of cultural heritage. Nanoparticles used in the construction industries reach the ecosystem through multiple channels and cause environmental implications such as adverse effects on environmentally relevant microbial species, algae, plants, and entry into the food chain. The exposure to nanoparticles by human beings also causes various health implications such as DNA damage, inflammation and cell death. Therefore, it has become crucial to determine toxicity and assessment of risk during the use of nanoparticles. Their toxicity depends on chemical and physical attributes. Uniform global regulatory policy needs to be framed to assess the toxicity, risk and approval of nanoparticles in the construction industries.