Development of Autoluminescent Surfacings for Concrete Pavements

Abstract

“Nanotechnology” is the term used to cover the design, construction, and use of functional structures with at least one characteristic dimension measured in nanometers. Although the technology initially developed in the fields of electronics, physics, and chemistry, more recent developments emerged in the engineering field. The focus is on a specific potential application of nanotechnology in pavement engineering where the properties of nanophosphors are used to develop an autoluminescent pavement or structure. A brief background is provided on potential applications of nanotechnology in pavement engineering, followed by a discussion on the specific research conducted. Data obtained from scanning electron microscope images and luminescence measurements of typical infrastructure materials with nanophosphors embedded are shown and discussed. An example is demonstrated in which the application of nanotechnology in pavement engineering may potentially lead to the provision of a safer and more economical transportation experience to the traveling public. Some remaining challenges for the current project are discussed and conclusions are made, showing that nanotechnology can play a role in improving the understanding and service delivery in pavement engineering.