Building for Eternity: The History and Technology of Roman Concrete Engineering in the Sea

The book explores the Roman maritime concrete technology that enabled them to build harbors and other structures in the sea for over two thousand years. It combines archaeological, geological, historical, and chemical research to explain how the Romans invented and employed this material. The book also breaks new ground by integrating analytical materials science, history, and archaeology with underwater exploration. It is of interest to anyone interested in Roman architecture and engineering, as well as geologists and mineralogists studying the material characteristics of pyroclastic volcanic rocks and their alteration in seawater brines.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 368 pages
Publication date: 15 March 2021
Publisher: Oxbow Books

An impressive testament to the grandeur of ancient Rome is its enduring architectural heritage, which can be found scattered across the vast expanse of the circum-Mediterranean region. However, one remarkable aspect of this legacy remains relatively unknown to the general public. Hidden beneath the waters of the Mediterranean lies the physical remnants of a vast maritime infrastructure that played a crucial role in sustaining and connecting the western world's first global empire and economy. The key to this extraordinary achievement and the remarkable longevity of structures in the challenging marine environment for over two thousand years was the invention and widespread use of maritime concrete by Roman builders.

This book delves into the fascinating story of how the Romans revolutionized naval construction with their innovative invention. It combines a diverse range of archaeological, geological, historical, and chemical research, offering insights into both ancient and modern technologies. By seamlessly integrating analytical materials science, history, and archaeology, along with underwater exploration, the book breaks new ground in bridging the gap between science and the humanities.

With a focus on Roman architecture and engineering, this book will captivate anyone with an interest in these fields. It will also hold particular appeal to geologists and mineralogists studying the material characteristics of pyroclastic volcanic rocks and their alteration in seawater brines. The remarkable durability and longevity of Roman maritime concrete structures may be of significant interest to engineers working on developing cementing materials suitable for long-term storage of hazardous substances, such as radioactive waste.

To uncover the secrets of Roman maritime concrete, a pioneering methodology was employed. Extensive underwater surveys, including sonar imaging and core sampling, were conducted to locate and analyze the remains of ancient harbor installations and shipwrecks. This multidisciplinary approach provided valuable insights into the composition, manufacturing techniques, and structural properties of this remarkable building material.

The book is organized into five chapters, each exploring different aspects of Roman maritime concrete. In the first chapter, the historical background and significance of maritime concrete are discussed. The Romans' reliance on trade and commerce across the Mediterranean, coupled with their need for efficient harbor installations, led to the development of this innovative material. The chapter also highlights the challenges faced by Roman builders in constructing structures in the sea, including the harsh marine environment, strong currents, and earthquakes.

The second chapter focuses on the materials used in Roman maritime concrete and their chemical composition. The authors examine the various ingredients, such as volcanic ash, lime, pozzolanic materials, and water, and explore how they were combined to create a durable and resilient building material. The chapter also discusses the manufacturing techniques employed by the Romans, including the use of hydraulic lime and the development of specialized molds and equipment.

In the third chapter, the structural properties of Roman maritime concrete are examined in detail. The authors discuss the strength and durability of this material, as well as its ability to withstand the harsh marine environment. They also explore the innovative design techniques used by Roman builders, such as the use of reinforced concrete and the incorporation of portholes and ventilation systems.

The fourth chapter explores the archaeological evidence of Roman maritime concrete structures. The authors present a comprehensive overview of the surviving harbor installations and shipwrecks that provide tangible evidence of the Roman navy's technological prowess and architectural achievements. They also discuss the methods used to date and interpret these structures, including radiocarbon dating, archaeological excavation, and computer modeling.

The fifth chapter discusses the legacy of Roman maritime concrete and its impact on modern engineering. The authors highlight the importance of understanding ancient technologies and materials for developing sustainable and resilient infrastructure. They also discuss the potential applications of Roman maritime concrete in contemporary maritime construction, such as the construction of offshore platforms and the preservation of historic shipwrecks.

In conclusion, this book offers a comprehensive and engaging exploration of Roman maritime concrete and its significance in the history of engineering. By combining archaeological, geological, historical, and chemical research, the authors provide a deep understanding of the materials, manufacturing techniques, and structural properties of this remarkable building material. The book breaks new ground in bridging the gap between science and the humanities, offering insights into both ancient and modern technologies. Whether you are interested in Roman architecture, engineering, or the history of technology, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking to gain a deeper appreciation of the grandeur of ancient Rome and its enduring legacy.

Weight: 1272g
Dimension: 217 x 279 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781789256369