Scientists are discovering a host of new properties in everyday materials by manipulating, measuring and introducing minuscule bits of matter a million times smaller than a pin-head. Any activity concerned with particles at a scale around 0.1-100nm (nanometres) is classified as Nanotechnology. Characterisation of the bonds between elements of the concrete microstructure by means of nano-identification and SEM image analysis will help us better understand this microstructure of the concrete material on nano-level. This valuable information obtained, will in turn help industry improve the bonds on this level and maybe new properties might immerge for concrete. This paper summarises a literature survey conducted as part of a study to characterise the bonds between the elements of the concrete microstructure, which will comprise of the following points of relevance. Firstly, the method of preparing the specimens for the SEM image analysis. Secondly, the method of conducting the SEM image analysis. Thirdly, the five point analysis to be performed on potential representative spots on the border line between the two different materials under question. Fourthly, the performing of the spectra analyses to obtain spectra graphs at these points by an EDS detector.

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1. An overview of the significance of crack widths on structural adhesion and degradation of cracked concrete