Innovative Civil World

Carbon nanotubes (CNT) were discovered in 1991 by Sumio Iijima. Carbon nanotube is a thin cylindrical material made by carbon. Carbon nanotubes having many structure, different in shape and size. The thermal, electrical and structural properties of nanotubes quite depend upon shape and size of nanotube. A nanotube is about 10,000 times small than human hair. Due to small size of nanotube the bonding between the atoms is very strong. CNT are almost 100 times stronger than steel. CNT are already used in polymer to enhance conductivity. A nanotube looks like rolled-up chicken wire with a continuous unbroken hexagonal mesh and carbon molecules at the peak of the hexagons. Currently, the most popular use for carbon nanotubes is in structural reinforcement. The high strength and low weight of CNT increases the strength of structure. Depending upon the number of layers, the CNT are classified as below:- single-walled nanotube (SWNT):-  It consists of a single graphene sheet rolled...

Building-integrated  photovoltaic (BIPV) is a new design opportunity for Architects and Civil Engineers. BIPV are photovoltaic material used in building envelope. It can be used on both new and existing buildings. Their use in the building envelope is very varied and opens many opportunities for creative designers.  Many architects have already integrated PV successfully in their buildings. BIPV is also electric power system used to produce electricity. For  example,  a  BIPV  skylight  is  an  integral  component  of  the  building envelope  as  well  as  a  solar  electric  energy  system that generates electricity for buildings. Photovoltaic (PV) applications are applied into different parts of building: Ø    Roof PV Roofs Ø   Skylights Skylights Ø   Semi-transparent facade Ø   Exter...