Challenges in Studying the Incorporation of Nanomaterials to Building Materials on Microbiological Models

Abstract

The versatility of nanomaterials allows their use in multiple applications. Their properties can be used in cementitious composites in order to mitigate the problem of microbiologically induced deterioration. Nevertheless, incorporating nanomaterials to such composites is associated with the agglomeration of nanoparticles and their release to the natural environment. There are multiple methods to assess the toxicity of nanomaterials, where microorganisms are used as model for studies. Even though microbial models are advisable, their use should be adjusted to the conditions in which the nanomaterial will be present. This includes a careful selection of test microorganisms that requires the description of their properties and environmental meaning. Current studies are focused on the toxicity, although metabolic characteristics, such as the possible stimulation of metabolism caused by the contact with a nanomaterial, are often omitted. This chapter describes issues associated with studying nanosized cement admixtures on microbiological models with indication on microorganisms that could be used for that purpose along with some of their characteristics.