Module 5

18ARC82 July/Aug 2022

What are Smart Materials? List out any four smart materials
Smart or Intelligent materials are materials that have to respond to stimuli and environmental changes
and to activate their functions according to these changes. the stimuli like temperature, pressure,
electric flow, magnetic flow, light, mechanical, etc can originate internally or externally.

Properties of Smart Materials

Sensing Materials And Devices

Actuation Materials And Devices

Control Devices And Techniques

Self-Detection, Self-Diagnostic

Self-Corrective, Self-Controlled, Self-Healing

Shock-Absorbers, Damage Arrest

4our Smart Materials

Shape Memory Alloys (SMAs):

Explanation: Shape memory alloys are materials that can return to their original shape after
deformation when exposed to a specific temperature.

Use in Construction: SMAs are used in adaptive building structures and components that can
respond to environmental changes. For example, they can be used in self-healing materials,
adaptive facades, and earthquake-resistant structures. When a building experiences seismic
activity, SMAs can absorb and dissipate energy, minimizing structural damage.

Quantum Tunnelling Composite (QTC):

Explanation: Quantum tunnelling composites are materials that change their electrical resistance
under mechanical pressure. These materials can act as insulators when relaxed and conductors
when compressed.

Use in Construction: QTCs are used in touch-sensitive switches, pressure sensors, and smart
surfaces in buildings. They can be integrated into building control systems for responsive lighting,
HVAC systems, and security features. For example, QTC-based sensors can detect occupancy and
adjust lighting or temperature accordingly, enhancing energy efficiency and occupant comfort.

Piezoelectric Material:

Explanation: Piezoelectric materials generate an electric charge in response to mechanical stress.

They can also deform when an electric field is applied.

Use in Construction: Piezoelectric materials are used in sensors, actuators, and energy harvesting
systems in buildings. They can be embedded in floors to capture and convert mechanical energy
from foot traffic into electrical energy. Additionally, piezoelectric sensors can monitor structural
health by detecting vibrations and stresses, providing real-time data on the integrity of the building.

Electrochromic Material:

Explanation: Electrochromic materials change their color or opacity in response to an electric

voltage. This change is reversible and can be controlled to manage light and heat transmission.

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 Use in Construction: Electrochromic materials are used in smart windows and glazing systems that
can dynamically adjust their transparency to control the amount of sunlight entering a building.
This helps regulate indoor temperatures, reduce glare, and improve energy efficiency by reducing
the need for artificial lighting and HVAC loads. For example, electrochromic windows can become
opaque during the hottest part of the day to minimize heat gain and turn transparent during cooler
periods to allow natural light.
Explain in details with relevant sketches the working of any two smart materials
as building components.
Shape Memory Alloys (SMAs):
Working Principle:
Shape Memory Alloys (SMAs) are materials that can return to their original shape after deformation
when exposed to a specific temperature. This is due to a reversible phase transformation between two
crystal structures: martensite (low temperature) and austenite (high temperature).

Applications and Working in Building Components:

1. Seismic Dampers:

Description: SMAs can be used in seismic dampers to absorb and dissipate energy during
earthquakes, reducing the stress on building structures.

Working:

Normal Conditions: In the absence of seismic activity, SMAs remain in their original shape,
maintaining structural stability.

During Seismic Activity: Upon experiencing deformation due to seismic forces, SMAs
convert to their martensite phase, absorbing and dissipating energy.

Post-Seismic Activity: When the temperature returns to normal, SMAs revert to their
austenite phase and original shape, ready for future events.

2. Adaptive Facades:

Description: SMAs can be incorporated into the design of building facades to create adaptive
shading systems.

Working:

Cool Weather: In cool weather, the SMA elements are in their original shape, allowing
maximum sunlight to enter the building.

Hot Weather: As the temperature rises, the SMA elements deform to create shading,
reducing solar heat gain and cooling loads.

Temperature Control: When the temperature decreases, the SMA elements revert to their
original shape, allowing more sunlight again.

Electrochromic Material:
Working Principle:
Electrochromic materials change their color or opacity when an electric voltage is applied. This
reversible process is controlled by the injection or removal of electrons, which alters the optical
properties of the material.
Applications and Working in Building Components:

1. Smart Windows:

Description: Electrochromic windows can dynamically adjust their transparency to control the
amount of light and heat entering a building.

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 Working:

Clear State: When no voltage is applied, the window remains clear, allowing maximum light
transmission.

Tinted State: Applying a low voltage causes the electrochromic material to change color,
reducing light and heat transmission.

Adjustable Tinting: The degree of tinting can be precisely controlled by varying the
voltage, providing customizable light and heat control.

2. Dynamic Glazing

Description: Electrochromic materials can be used in dynamic glazing systems to enhance

energy efficiency and occupant comfort.

Working:

Daytime Operation: During the day, the glazing can be adjusted to reduce glare and solar
heat gain while maintaining visibility.

Nighttime Operation: At night, the glazing can revert to a clear state to allow maximum
visibility and light transmission.

Energy Savings: By dynamically controlling the light and heat entering the building, energy
consumption for lighting, heating, and cooling can be significantly reduced.
What is nano technology? Explain with the examples of any four materials in the
building industry that are impacted by nano technology.
Nanotechnology:
Nanotechnology involves the manipulation of matter on an atomic or molecular scale, typically
involving structures sized between 1 and 100 nanometers. This technology allows for the creation of
materials with novel properties and enhanced performance due to their nanoscale dimensions and high
surface area to volume ratios. In the building industry, nanotechnology is revolutionizing materials to
enhance their strength, durability, energy efficiency, and functionality.
Examples of Nanotechnology-Enhanced Materials in the Building Industry:

1. Nano-Concrete:

Explanation: Incorporating nanoparticles like nano-silica, nano-alumina, or carbon nanotubes

into concrete can significantly enhance its properties.

Impact: Nano-concrete exhibits improved compressive strength, durability, and resistance to

cracking. The nanoparticles fill the voids within the concrete matrix, reducing porosity and
increasing density. This results in longer-lasting structures with reduced maintenance needs.

2. Self-Cleaning Glass:

Explanation: Self-cleaning glass is coated with a thin layer of titanium dioxide (TiO2)
nanoparticles.

Impact: The TiO2 coating provides photocatalytic and hydrophilic properties. When exposed to
sunlight, the coating breaks down organic dirt on the surface. When it rains, the hydrophilic
nature ensures that water spreads evenly across the surface, washing away loosened dirt. This
reduces the need for manual cleaning and maintenance of windows and facades.

3. Nano-Insulation Materials:

Explanation: Aerogels and other nanoporous materials are used as advanced insulation
materials.

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 Impact: These materials have extremely low thermal conductivity, providing superior insulation
compared to traditional materials. Nano-insulation materials can be used in walls, roofs, and
windows to improve energy efficiency by reducing heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer.
This contributes to lower energy consumption for heating and cooling.

4. Anti-Graffiti Coatings:

Explanation: Nanoparticle-based coatings can make surfaces resistant to graffiti and other
forms of defacement.

Impact: These coatings create a protective layer that prevents paint and other substances from
adhering to the surface. Graffiti can be easily washed off without damaging the underlying
material. This is particularly useful for public buildings, transportation infrastructure, and
commercial properties, reducing cleaning costs and preserving aesthetic appeal.
Where do smart materials find application in the building industry? Name at least
two smart materials.
Smart materials are increasingly being integrated into various aspects of the building industry due to
their ability to adapt and respond to environmental changes and user needs. Here are several
applications of smart materials in the building industry:

1. Adaptive Building Envelopes:

Electrochromic Windows: These windows can change their tint in response to electrical
voltage, allowing control over the amount of sunlight entering the building. This helps in
reducing glare and heat gain, improving energy efficiency.

Thermochromic Materials: These materials change color in response to temperature changes,

helping to control the thermal load on buildings by reflecting or absorbing heat as needed.

2. Structural Health Monitoring:

Piezoelectric Sensors: Integrated into building structures, these sensors can monitor stress,
strain, and vibrations, providing real-time data on structural health and integrity. This is crucial
for early detection of potential structural issues and maintenance planning.

Shape Memory Alloys (SMAs): Used in structural components to enhance earthquake

resistance by absorbing and dissipating energy, thus protecting the building from seismic
damage.

3. Energy Harvesting and Efficiency:

Photovoltaic Materials: Thin-film solar panels and other photovoltaic materials can be
integrated into building facades and roofs to generate electricity from sunlight, contributing to
the building's energy needs.

Piezoelectric Flooring: Flooring systems that harvest energy from foot traffic and convert it
into electricity can be used to power low-energy devices or lighting systems within the
building.

4. Environmental Control Systems:

Phase Change Materials (PCMs): Incorporated into walls, ceilings, and floors, PCMs absorb
and release thermal energy during phase transitions (e.g., from solid to liquid and vice versa),
helping to regulate indoor temperatures and reduce HVAC loads.

Hydrogel-Based Materials: Used in building envelopes and landscaping, these materials can
absorb and retain water, providing passive cooling through evaporative processes.

5. Self-Healing Materials:

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 Concrete with Microcapsules: Concrete infused with microcapsules containing healing agents
that are released when cracks form. This helps in extending the lifespan of concrete structures
by autonomously repairing minor damages.

Polymers with Shape Memory Properties: Used in coatings and sealants that can return to
their original shape and close up cracks when exposed to heat or other stimuli.

6. Interior Design and Comfort:

Smart Glass: Beyond electrochromic properties, smart glass can also include features like
embedded displays or privacy settings that can switch from transparent to opaque.

Temperature-Regulating Fabrics: Used in furnishings and textiles that adjust their thermal
properties based on the surrounding temperature, enhancing occupant comfort.

7. Acoustic Control:

Smart Acoustic Panels: Panels that can change their acoustic properties to absorb or reflect
sound as needed, improving the acoustic performance of spaces such as auditoriums, offices,
and homes.

Smart or Intelligent materials are materials that have to respond to stimuli and environmental changes
and to activate their functions according to these changes. the stimuli like temperature, pressure,
electric flow, magnetic flow, light, mechanical, etc can originate internally or externally.

Properties of Smart Materials

Sensing Materials And Devices

Actuation Materials And Devices

Control Devices And Techniques

Self-Detection, Self-Diagnostic

Self-Corrective, Self-Controlled, Self-Healing

Shock-Absorbers, Damage Arrest

4our Smart Materials

Shape Memory Alloys (SMAs):

Explanation: Shape memory alloys are materials that can return to their original shape after
deformation when exposed to a specific temperature.

Use in Construction: SMAs are used in adaptive building structures and components that can
respond to environmental changes. For example, they can be used in self-healing materials,
adaptive facades, and earthquake-resistant structures. When a building experiences seismic
activity, SMAs can absorb and dissipate energy, minimizing structural damage.

Quantum Tunnelling Composite (QTC):

Explanation: Quantum tunnelling composites are materials that change their electrical resistance
under mechanical pressure. These materials can act as insulators when relaxed and conductors
when compressed.

Use in Construction: QTCs are used in touch-sensitive switches, pressure sensors, and smart
surfaces in buildings. They can be integrated into building control systems for responsive lighting,
HVAC systems, and security features. For example, QTC-based sensors can detect occupancy and
adjust lighting or temperature accordingly, enhancing energy efficiency and occupant comfort.

Piezoelectric Material:

Module 5 5
 Explanation: Piezoelectric materials generate an electric charge in response to mechanical stress.
They can also deform when an electric field is applied.

Use in Construction: Piezoelectric materials are used in sensors, actuators, and energy harvesting
systems in buildings. They can be embedded in floors to capture and convert mechanical energy
from foot traffic into electrical energy. Additionally, piezoelectric sensors can monitor structural
health by detecting vibrations and stresses, providing real-time data on the integrity of the building.

Electrochromic Material:

Explanation: Electrochromic materials change their color or opacity in response to an electric

voltage. This change is reversible and can be controlled to manage light and heat transmission.

Use in Construction: Electrochromic materials are used in smart windows and glazing systems that
can dynamically adjust their transparency to control the amount of sunlight entering a building.
This helps regulate indoor temperatures, reduce glare, and improve energy efficiency by reducing
the need for artificial lighting and HVAC loads. For example, electrochromic windows can become
opaque during the hottest part of the day to minimize heat gain and turn transparent during cooler
periods to allow natural light.

18ARC82 Jan/Feb 2023

What is nano technology? What are some nano materials used in construction?
Nanotechnology:

Nanotechnology involves the manipulation of matter on an atomic or molecular scale, typically

involving structures sized between 1 and 100 nanometers. This technology allows for the creation of
materials with novel properties and enhanced performance due to their nanoscale dimensions and high
surface area to volume ratios. In the building industry, nanotechnology is revolutionizing materials to
enhance their strength, durability, energy efficiency, and functionality.

Examples of Nanotechnology-Enhanced Materials in the Building Industry:

What are smart materials? Explain their use in construction with five examples.
Smart or Intelligent materials are materials that have to respond to stimuli and environmental changes
and to activate their functions according to these changes. the stimuli like temperature, pressure,
electric flow, magnetic flow, light, mechanical, etc can originate internally or externally.
Properties of Smart Materials

Sensing Materials And Devices

Actuation Materials And Devices

Control Devices And Techniques

Self-Detection, Self-Diagnostic

Self-Corrective, Self-Controlled, Self-Healing

Shock-Absorbers, Damage Arrest

4our Smart Materials

Shape Memory Alloys (SMAs):

Explanation: Shape memory alloys are materials that can return to their original shape after
deformation when exposed to a specific temperature.

Use in Construction: SMAs are used in adaptive building structures and components that can
respond to environmental changes. For example, they can be used in self-healing materials,

Module 5 6
 adaptive facades, and earthquake-resistant structures. When a building experiences seismic
activity, SMAs can absorb and dissipate energy, minimizing structural damage.

Quantum Tunnelling Composite (QTC):

Explanation: Quantum tunnelling composites are materials that change their electrical resistance
under mechanical pressure. These materials can act as insulators when relaxed and conductors
when compressed.

Use in Construction: QTCs are used in touch-sensitive switches, pressure sensors, and smart
surfaces in buildings. They can be integrated into building control systems for responsive lighting,
HVAC systems, and security features. For example, QTC-based sensors can detect occupancy and
adjust lighting or temperature accordingly, enhancing energy efficiency and occupant comfort.

Piezoelectric Material:

Explanation: Piezoelectric materials generate an electric charge in response to mechanical stress.

They can also deform when an electric field is applied.

Use in Construction: Piezoelectric materials are used in sensors, actuators, and energy harvesting
systems in buildings. They can be embedded in floors to capture and convert mechanical energy
from foot traffic into electrical energy. Additionally, piezoelectric sensors can monitor structural
health by detecting vibrations and stresses, providing real-time data on the integrity of the building.

Electrochromic Material:

Explanation: Electrochromic materials change their color or opacity in response to an electric

voltage. This change is reversible and can be controlled to manage light and heat transmission.

Use in Construction: Electrochromic materials are used in smart windows and glazing systems that
can dynamically adjust their transparency to control the amount of sunlight entering a building.
This helps regulate indoor temperatures, reduce glare, and improve energy efficiency by reducing
the need for artificial lighting and HVAC loads. For example, electrochromic windows can become
opaque during the hottest part of the day to minimize heat gain and turn transparent during cooler
periods to allow natural light.

18ARC82 June/July 2023

Explain in detail any four smart materials and its application in the construction
industry.
Smart or Intelligent materials are materials that have to respond to stimuli and environmental changes
and to activate their functions according to these changes. the stimuli like temperature, pressure,
electric flow, magnetic flow, light, mechanical, etc can originate internally or externally.

Properties of Smart Materials

Sensing Materials And Devices

Actuation Materials And Devices

Control Devices And Techniques

Self-Detection, Self-Diagnostic

Self-Corrective, Self-Controlled, Self-Healing

Shock-Absorbers, Damage Arrest

4our Smart Materials

Shape Memory Alloys (SMAs):

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 Explanation: Shape memory alloys are materials that can return to their original shape after
deformation when exposed to a specific temperature.

Use in Construction: SMAs are used in adaptive building structures and components that can
respond to environmental changes. For example, they can be used in self-healing materials,
adaptive facades, and earthquake-resistant structures. When a building experiences seismic
activity, SMAs can absorb and dissipate energy, minimizing structural damage.

Quantum Tunnelling Composite (QTC):

Explanation: Quantum tunnelling composites are materials that change their electrical resistance
under mechanical pressure. These materials can act as insulators when relaxed and conductors
when compressed.

Use in Construction: QTCs are used in touch-sensitive switches, pressure sensors, and smart
surfaces in buildings. They can be integrated into building control systems for responsive lighting,
HVAC systems, and security features. For example, QTC-based sensors can detect occupancy and
adjust lighting or temperature accordingly, enhancing energy efficiency and occupant comfort.

Piezoelectric Material:

Explanation: Piezoelectric materials generate an electric charge in response to mechanical stress.

They can also deform when an electric field is applied.

Use in Construction: Piezoelectric materials are used in sensors, actuators, and energy harvesting
systems in buildings. They can be embedded in floors to capture and convert mechanical energy
from foot traffic into electrical energy. Additionally, piezoelectric sensors can monitor structural
health by detecting vibrations and stresses, providing real-time data on the integrity of the building.

Electrochromic Material:

Explanation: Electrochromic materials change their color or opacity in response to an electric

voltage. This change is reversible and can be controlled to manage light and heat transmission.

Use in Construction: Electrochromic materials are used in smart windows and glazing systems that
can dynamically adjust their transparency to control the amount of sunlight entering a building.
This helps regulate indoor temperatures, reduce glare, and improve energy efficiency by reducing
the need for artificial lighting and HVAC loads. For example, electrochromic windows can become
opaque during the hottest part of the day to minimize heat gain and turn transparent during cooler
periods to allow natural light.
Explain in detail any four Nano material and its application in the construction
industry.
Nanotechnology:
Nanotechnology involves the manipulation of matter on an atomic or molecular scale, typically
involving structures sized between 1 and 100 nanometers. This technology allows for the creation of
materials with novel properties and enhanced performance due to their nanoscale dimensions and high
surface area to volume ratios. In the building industry, nanotechnology is revolutionizing materials to
enhance their strength, durability, energy efficiency, and functionality.
Examples of Nanotechnology-Enhanced Materials in the Building Industry:

18ARC82 Dec’23/Jan’24
What does nano technology mean? What are four examples of nano materials
used in
construction?
Nanotechnology:

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 Nanotechnology involves the manipulation of matter on an atomic or molecular scale, typically
involving structures sized between 1 and 100 nanometers. This technology allows for the creation of
materials with novel properties and enhanced performance due to their nanoscale dimensions and high
surface area to volume ratios. In the building industry, nanotechnology is revolutionizing materials to
enhance their strength, durability, energy efficiency, and functionality.
Examples of Nanotechnology-Enhanced Materials in the Building Industry:
How is smart material defined? Explain the use of any four smart materials.
Smart or Intelligent materials are materials that have to respond to stimuli and environmental changes
and to activate their functions according to these changes. the stimuli like temperature, pressure,
electric flow, magnetic flow, light, mechanical, etc can originate internally or externally.
Properties of Smart Materials

Sensing Materials And Devices

Actuation Materials And Devices

Control Devices And Techniques

Self-Detection, Self-Diagnostic

Self-Corrective, Self-Controlled, Self-Healing

Shock-Absorbers, Damage Arrest

4our Smart Materials

Shape Memory Alloys (SMAs):

Explanation: Shape memory alloys are materials that can return to their original shape after
deformation when exposed to a specific temperature.

Use in Construction: SMAs are used in adaptive building structures and components that can
respond to environmental changes. For example, they can be used in self-healing materials,
adaptive facades, and earthquake-resistant structures. When a building experiences seismic
activity, SMAs can absorb and dissipate energy, minimizing structural damage.

Quantum Tunnelling Composite (QTC):

Explanation: Quantum tunnelling composites are materials that change their electrical resistance
under mechanical pressure. These materials can act as insulators when relaxed and conductors
when compressed.

Use in Construction: QTCs are used in touch-sensitive switches, pressure sensors, and smart
surfaces in buildings. They can be integrated into building control systems for responsive lighting,
HVAC systems, and security features. For example, QTC-based sensors can detect occupancy and
adjust lighting or temperature accordingly, enhancing energy efficiency and occupant comfort.

Piezoelectric Material:

Explanation: Piezoelectric materials generate an electric charge in response to mechanical stress.

They can also deform when an electric field is applied.

Use in Construction: Piezoelectric materials are used in sensors, actuators, and energy harvesting
systems in buildings. They can be embedded in floors to capture and convert mechanical energy
from foot traffic into electrical energy. Additionally, piezoelectric sensors can monitor structural
health by detecting vibrations and stresses, providing real-time data on the integrity of the building.

Electrochromic Material:

Explanation: Electrochromic materials change their color or opacity in response to an electric

voltage. This change is reversible and can be controlled to manage light and heat transmission.

Module 5 9
 Use in Construction: Electrochromic materials are used in smart windows and glazing systems that
can dynamically adjust their transparency to control the amount of sunlight entering a building.
This helps regulate indoor temperatures, reduce glare, and improve energy efficiency by reducing
the need for artificial lighting and HVAC loads. For example, electrochromic windows can become
opaque during the hottest part of the day to minimize heat gain and turn transparent during cooler
periods to allow natural light.

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