How nanotechnology can have a big impact on the built environment
Nanotechnology is science, technology and engineering on a nanoscale. It gives us the ability to see and control individual atoms and molecules. To put things in perspective, if a marble were a nanometer, then one meter would be the size of the Earth.
The full impact of nanotechnology on the built environment is unimaginable. A 2021 report on Digital Construction found that 80% of respondents think the adoption of digital technologies is delivering a better-built environment, with three-quarters (75%) saying it improves sustainability.
Nanotechnology has the potential to revolutionize the way we design and build, making the built environment more efficient, sustainable, and resilient. We create sustainable solutions at AtkinsRéalis that connect people, data, and technology to design, deliver and operate the most complex projects.
We're excited to see what boundaries nanotechnology could help us push. Are you?
Greener projects
Nanotechnology has the power to improve process efficiency, reduce carbon emissions, and produce less wasteful methods of construction.
Nanoscale materials
It can be used to improve the performance of construction materials as we can enhance properties such as higher strength, lighter weight, increased control of the light spectrum, and greater chemical reactivity. Carbon nanotubes are a great example of a useful application in the built environment.
Carbon nanotubes are a hundred times stronger than steel and can be used as a switchable conduit, a light source, a generator of energy and even a conveyor of matter. Another application is adding carbon nanotubes to concrete making it stronger, yet lighter.
Limiting waste
Nanotechnology can be used to create materials that are more durable and consume less energy, which can reduce the number of materials that are used. This enhances and protects biodiversity in the built environment.
There are also applications to improve recycling processes. By adding nanoparticles into plastic, it makes it easier to separate, process, and recycle. What’s more, nanotechnology can be used to create new materials that are fully recyclable such as nanocellulose-based composites.
Reducing carbon emissions
Nanotechnology can reduce carbon emissions in several ways:
- Creating cleaner energy sources - nanomaterials such as perovskite can be used in solar cells, fuel cells, and batteries to produce more clean energy.
- Capturing more carbon - a lot of energy is required to capture carbon and nanotechnology can be used to capture and store it more efficiently by using nanoparticles in membranes to separate gas.
- Reducing emissions on a human level - introducing nanocatalysts for engines could have a worldwide impact on the environment.
Address water pollution
Nanotechnology can improve water treatments through nanofiltration. This is where membranes with nanopores are created that remove contaminants from water. This process is considerably more effective than traditional filtering methods and can capture viruses, bacteria, heavy metals, and organic pollutants.
Technology
This technology can also be used to create more powerful computers through the development of smaller and faster components that process information more efficiently, use less energy and extend battery life.
Nanoscale transistors made from graphene or carbon nanotubes operate at lower voltages which means they consume less power and generate less heat.
We embrace sustainability at AtkinsRéalis and are always on the lookout for ways to incorporate sustainable solutions for our teams and clients to make the world a better place. You’ll have access to the latest technology so you can engineer a better future for our planet and its people.
Be part of the change and create a better-built environment
Nanotechnology is pushing the boundaries of the built environment. At AtkinsRéalis , we are embracing technology to change the world in a positive way.
If you enjoy finding new and better ways of doing things, there’s a place for you at AtkinsRéalis to grow and thrive. Find your next opportunity with us, whether it’s in cities and development, transportation, or project, programme and cost management
Interested? Find out more about life at AtkinsRéalis
Sign up to receive the latest content tailored to your interests
Our articles
+(1).png)
Preview
EuropeContent type
BlogsPublish date
04/01/2025
Summary
"I've always wanted to pursue an engineering degree. As a child, I changed my dream discipline as often as I got a haircut! Eventually, I chose Electronics and Communications Engineering and compl

Preview
IndiaContent type
BlogsPublish date
03/25/2025
Summary
Hello, my name is Nikita. AtkinsRéalis is the first company I joined as a dedicated HR professional, where I spent over three years hiring talented, deserving candidates and supporting smooth or

by
Akash Kumar

Preview
EuropeContent type
BlogsPublish date
03/24/2025
Summary
My name is Kamal. I was born in Lebanon, where I also attended school (below is a beautiful picture of Lebanon). I completed my university days in Lebanon, Texas and London. I'm a Structural Engin

Preview
CanadaContent type
BlogsPublish date
03/20/2025
Summary
Snippet title Lire en français Meet Marc-Antoine, a structural engineer and structural inspection and asset management expert at AtkinsRéalis in Canada. Let’s learn about his passion for st

Preview
IndiaContent type
BlogsPublish date
03/20/2025
Summary
Behind every successful project, from towering skyscrapers to cutting-edge industrial facilities, there’s a structured and efficient flow of information. At the heart of this process is the documen
.jpg)
Preview
AfricaContent type
BlogsPublish date
03/19/2025
Summary
Architecture jobs in Egypt are among the fastest-growing opportunities in the country. Projected to grow by 20% by 2030, the market is booming, creating plenty of demand for visionary architects in

Preview
IndiaContent type
BlogsPublish date
03/19/2025
Summary
Transport systems are the backbone of any economy. In India, they’re hugely influential for both connectivity and trade facilitation. Transport systems in India are projected to account for 40% of

Preview
IndiaContent type
BlogsPublish date
03/18/2025
Summary
Imagine a career where your engineering expertise doesn’t just contribute to projects—it helps shape the world’s future. At AtkinsRéalis India, we offer you the chance to be part of groundbreaking

Preview
EuropeContent type
BlogsPublish date
03/12/2025
Summary
Hi, I'm Lana. I hold a French engineering degree in geotechnical and civil engineering from Polytech Grenoble, which included a two-semester Erasmus+ exchange at Loughborough University. My journ

Preview
AsiaContent type
BlogsPublish date
03/11/2025
Summary
Sustainability is no longer a choice but an imperative for modern engineering. Today, it is woven into every decision, every project, and every goal. At AtkinsRéalis, we have the privilege to

by
Shailaja Mantha

Preview
IndiaContent type
BlogsPublish date
03/07/2025
Summary
Hello, my name is Manali, and I work at AtkinsRéalis at the Global Technology Centre (GTC) in India. This International Women's Day, I want to tell you about my career journey, which has been as

by
Akash Kumar
.jpg)
Preview
EuropeContent type
BlogsPublish date
03/06/2025
Summary
The state of the UK water industry Water is the foundation of life. It sustains communities, powers industries, and supports ecosystems—but across the world, this critical resource is under increa
Related jobs
We are sorry there are no jobs that match your exact criteria. Try a new search term, or use the filters to continue browsing for available opportunities.
View allEquality, diversity and inclusion
We’re devoted to growing the diversity of our people, promoting an inclusive culture, providing everyone with an equal voice because simply put, it’s the right thing to do. Click to learn more.
Find out more