Admir Masic, an MIT Associate Professor, is causing a concrete stir with his groundbreaking research on ancient Roman building techniques. His studies reveal that the Romans had a revolutionary method for creating self-healing concrete, using a unique“hot-mixing”process involving lime and volcanic ash. Unlike the traditional methods described by the famous architect Vitruvius, this innovative approach allowed structures to endure for thousands of years, some still standing after nearly two millennia.
Masic’s recent discoveries at Pompeii have shed light on this ancient technique, showing how lime clasts interact with cracks to self-repair over time. This could not only reshape our understanding of Roman engineering but also influence modern construction practices. With Masic’s new company, DMAT, set to use these timeless methods, it seems the Romans had the mastery of concrete figured out long before we did. Who knew that the next great leap in building materials might just be borrowing from the past?
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Local Lawton
Local Lawton is a contributor to LocalBeat, covering local news and community stories.
