If roman concrete was shown to have self-healing capabilities, why isn’t it used with modern reinforcement techniques?

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As the title suggests. If roman concrete supposedly has the capabilities to mend tiny cracks via chemical reaction, why isn’t it used with modern reinforcements to seal the pathways to the steel beams to protect it from oxygen and elements and prevent corrosion? Are there any major downsides to hot-mixed concrete, is it not as good as the studies make it out to be, or is it simply not viable due to cost and manufacturing process/storage requirements?

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Anonymous 0 Comments

The idea that Romans built concrete or roads better than we do is a complete falsehood. It’s perpetuated by people who have no idea what they’re talking about. This “self healing” concrete is far weaker than concrete wet use for construction. It’s brittle and the parts that “heal” are even more brittle. As for roads, sure there are still Roman roads that appear to have more longevity than our roads. But people seem to forget that Roman roads had to carry people and horses. Our roads have to carry millions of cars and trucks weighing 80 tonnes moving at 100kmh every single day

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