Opus caementicium—ancient Roman concrete may aid in fighting rising sea levels

Among all the remains of ancient Rome, their extraordinary feats of building are certainly the most visible to the public. The Colosseum, the Roman forum, the Pantheon, and remains of a large network of roads and aqueducts stand as marvels of the ancient civilization in the modern landscape. The invention of concrete by the Romans is largely responsible. Used to build sea walls and piers along various parts of the waterfront of ancient Rome, the concrete is not only durable, but it also becomes stronger over time. Now scientists are studying the recipe to understand how it may be used to help waterfront cities protect themselves from rising sea levels due to climate change.

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Ancient Romans made world’s ‘most durable’ concrete. We might use it to stop rising seas.

By Ben Guarino

The Washington Post

July 4, 2017