Nano Sensors Can Save Buildings From Decay

A team of engineers obtained from various engineering schools in the United States, have come together to develop a new system that could detect temperature, moisture, acidity, carbon dioxide and chloride levels, and even developing cracks in concrete. This new wireless system of measurement could be a breakthrough to keeping buildings intact, sound, and well maintained. The wireless nano probes that would be inserted into foundations and columns would be able to detect every flaw and send it to a maintenance crew for that building. The devices are named MEMS which is derived from the word microelectromechanical system. They are similar to the long gauge nanotube sensors that were tried in the feasibility study a while back. This new device could have the ability to advance other systems in a wide range of fields such as transportation, communication, military and medicine. Not only can it enhance things in those fields but it can greatly enhance those areas involved in the civil engineering field as well. The device would allow civil engineers to keep a constant check on bridges and other buildings and structures to prevent problematic situations in the future. The device could be everywhere in a few years and may leave our buildings standing for centuries.

Inderscience Publishers. "Wireless nano sensors could save bridges, buildings."ScienceDaily 12 April 2010. 25 March 2011 <http://www.sciencedaily.com­/releases/2010/04/100409105355.htm>.