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

Question

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?

In: Engineering

Answer 1

1. Until recently we didn’t quite know how Roman concrete stood the test of time.

2. Modern concrete is, even without reinforcement, stronger and more specialized the Roman concrete. So is still a better alternative.

There are probably engineers and scientists out there trying to blend the two together right now to make a modern concrete that self heals. But unless it is economically competitive against modern concrete it won’t take off.