Rome wasn't built in a day, but they sure had strong concrete
The Roman Colosseum is a giant, oval amphitheater built almost two thousand years ago. Despite its age and a 14th century earthquake that knocked down the south side of the colosseum, most of the 150-some foot building is still standing. Like many ancient Roman structures, parts of it were constructed using a specific type of concrete. Scientists and engineers have long suspected a key to these buildings' durability is their use of this Roman concrete. But exactly how this sturdy concrete has contributed to the architecture's strength has been a mystery to researchers across the globe.
A team of interdisciplinary researchers have recently discovered one answer to why these ancient Roman buildings have weathered the test of time \u2014 while many modern, concrete structures seem to crumble after a few decades.
The answer: self-healing concrete.
Curious about other new discoveries or potential climate solutions scientists are researching? Email us at ShortWave@NPR.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy