The sturdiness and strength of Roman structures have long puzzled scientists, but American and European researchers say they have finally discovered the secret to the longevity of these architectural masterpieces built nearly two thousand years ago, namely that concrete can repair itself.
These scientists hope that their invention will help reduce the environmental and climate impact of concrete production, which produces large emissions of greenhouse gases.
Until now, the strength of Roman concrete was attributed in part to volcanic ash from the Gulf of Naples region in Italy, which was shipped throughout the Roman Empire for use in construction.
But this time, the researchers, mainly from Italy and Switzerland, focused on the presence of another property, small, white, shiny pieces of lime, another ingredient used in making concrete.
Admir Masic, co-author of this study, whose results were published in the journal “Science Advances” and a professor at the prestigious American MIT University. Ever since I started working on Roman concrete, I’ve been fascinated by the presence of these small pieces.