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Engineers Weigh Up Returning to #Ancient #RomanConcrete Recipes

Carly Cassella
Wed, July 30, 2025

"The ancient Romans might have taught us a thing or two about manufacturing #sustainable concrete that lasts for thousands of years.

"A new study has rigorously analyzed the raw materials and energy demands of their ancient recipe, revealing some useful ways to improve modern cement.

"Surprisingly, researchers found that producing Roman mortar and concrete requires more water and more greenhouse gas emissions than #PortlandCement – the most common type of cement used in concrete today.

"But while the initial energy costs may be steeper, Roman concrete formulations could ultimately prove more sustainable in the long run. That's because they may not need to be replaced or repaired as often."

#Infrastructure #BuildingSustainably #MadeToLast #AncientTechnology #Concrete