Abstract
Nanotechnology is bringing about changes in everyday technologies in fundamental ways, both obvious and non-obvious. In order to address nanotechnology, Human Factors and Ergonomics (HFE) as a research discipline requires multiple methods in engaging this novel technology strategically. One mode of engagement is through nanomaterials. Nanomaterials can be addressed by HFE in four significant ways: health and safety; new products and embedding in existing technologies for improved qualities; industrial production; along with, through university laboratory research. The aim of this article is to present one manner of engaging nanomaterials and HFE through addressing nanomaterials as embedded in existing technologies and their involvement in university research laboratories. This aspect of engagement is depicted by addressing the use of nanomaterials in an existing well-entrenched technology of concrete to produce an enhanced product—nanoconcrete. Using the framework of Cognitive Work Analysis (CWA), this article addresses the work domain of nanoconcrete in terms of work practices in university laboratory settings. The models derived from CWA are used to identify the various constraints ranging from the environment to the people involved in the concrete domain. The results emphasize that to address nanomaterials (in this case, nanosilica), one has to comprehend its overarching matrix of the material (concrete) in which it is embedded. While the current article presents just one facet studying the intersection between nanomaterials and HFE, further research can identify new ways in which nanotechnology could be integrated robustly in the disciplinary viewpoint of HFE.
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Acknowledgements
This study would not have been possible without MGH introducing me to the inner world of concrete pavement engineering. Also, many thanks to the Director of the laboratory in which this research was conducted. All the researchers in the laboratory were extremely helpful and supportive throughout the duration of fieldwork. Thanks to all the researchers and the laboratory director. Due to reasons of ensuring anonymity to research participants, their names are not divulged.
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Kant, V. Revisiting the technologies of the old: a case study of cognitive work analysis and nanomaterials. Cogn Tech Work 19, 47–71 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10111-016-0397-8
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10111-016-0397-8