Roman concrete strength

[guy]

There have been a few posts before about the unusual strength of Roman concrete. Here is an excellent short video on the subject. (The secret seems to be the use of volcanic ash):
 

The amazing strength and durability of many ancient Roman structures, especially those submerged in water, has amazed researchers. Many believe that it is the chemical reaction between seawater with a mixture of volcanic ash and quicklime that creates a highly resistant mineral known as aluminous toberormorite.

 

 

 

 

 

[caesar novus]

There are new claims for the "real" secret to Roman concrete durability. Not only magic ingredients that we seem to have heard before, but "hot mix" processing. Supposed to point the way to structures that self heal over time rather than pancake Miami-style according to MIT just now: https://news.mit.edu/2023/roman-concrete-durability-lime-casts-0106

Edited January 8, 2023 by caesar novus