Ancient Roman concrete is still standing strong after thousands of years and, not only does it resist damage, but the salt water actually makes it stronger. X-ray examinations may have found the key to the concrete's amazing longevity, which could help improve modern concrete recipes. Dissolving phillipsite in pumice, as seen in this Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) image, is believed to be part of the secret:
Note that modern sea walls last only a few years in salt water where these Roman sea walls have lasted thousands of years.
Although the complete recipe has been lost over the years, studies of samples have shown that volcanic ash, lime, and seawater are the main ingredients. "But, according to an article published in American Mineralogist the real magic seems to happen when those ingredients interact with the environment – specifically the saltwater incessantly pounding on the surface."
Al-tobermorite is part of the cementing matrix, key to its strength. Modern "Portland cement" relies more heavily on heating the elements, exacting an environmental toll.
Huzzah for the ancient Romans. . .and for seawater! Has this idea been cemented in your brain?
Steph
Pink Martini and Rufus Wainwright at Red Rocks, July 6, 2017:
Note that modern sea walls last only a few years in salt water where these Roman sea walls have lasted thousands of years.
Although the complete recipe has been lost over the years, studies of samples have shown that volcanic ash, lime, and seawater are the main ingredients. "But, according to an article published in American Mineralogist the real magic seems to happen when those ingredients interact with the environment – specifically the saltwater incessantly pounding on the surface."
Al-tobermorite is part of the cementing matrix, key to its strength. Modern "Portland cement" relies more heavily on heating the elements, exacting an environmental toll.
Huzzah for the ancient Romans. . .and for seawater! Has this idea been cemented in your brain?
Steph
Pink Martini and Rufus Wainwright at Red Rocks, July 6, 2017:
