Nanotechnology-enhanced roadway infrastructure in the U.S: An interdisciplinary review of resilience, sustainability, and policy implications

Eche Samuel Okem 1, *, Tosin Daniel Iluyomade 2 and Dorcas Oluwajuwonlo Akande

1 Department of Civil Engineering, University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.
2 Mechanical Design Engineer, M+C Department, Mulalley & Co Ltd, London, United Kingdom.
3 Principal Civil Engineer, Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA), Lagos State Government, Alausa Secretariat, Ikeja, Nigeria.
 
Review
World Journal of Advanced Engineering Technology and Sciences, 2024, 11(02), 397–410.
Article DOI: 10.30574/wjaets.2024.11.2.0126
 
Publication history: 
Received on 01 March 2024; revised on 11 April 2024; accepted on 13 April 2024
 
Abstract: 
In the context of U.S. road infrastructure, nanotechnology offers distinct advantages over traditional materials by markedly improving durability and sustainability for future developments. The essay presents a full-scale analysis that aims to at the junction between engineering and nanotechnology reliability and strengthen the transportation system against ever-rising challenges. By taking into account a qualitative research perspective, the paper delves into academic literature to provide a view of resilience and innovative nanotechnology applications.
Through the exemplary demonstration of the application of nanotechnology, the paper explains the revolution the science has brought about, which includes semiconductor nano-sensors providing for real-time road monitoring and self-healing materials that increase durability. The study emphasizes the mechanical good qualities and sustainability of nanotechnology-boosted materials, upgrading technical challenges and incorporating top maintenance procedures to increase infrastructure strength levels.
The investigation, apart from technical skill, also brings in the social and economic factors as well as addressing environmental sustainability, thus moderating growth and ensuring the communities on the rise. The paper illustrates that nanotechnology is a mechanism for transforming roadside infrastructure, and at the same time, the recommendations point to policymakers and practitioners to participate in sustained and interdisciplinary collaboration, respectively.
Finally, this study can be seen as one of the guides towards a resilient and environmentally friendly inventory of infrastructure systems where innovation operates in conjunction with resource management and economic development. Applying nanotechnology as well as accepting comprehensive development concepts, policymakers and professionals will design standards that will reflect humans intelligence and promise of the future.
 
Keywords: 
Nanotechnology; Engineering Resilience; Roadway Infrastructure; Sustainability; Green Infrastructure; Performance Evaluation. 
 
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