The Birth and Use of Concrete and Reinforced Concrete

Abstract

Concrete was used for construction in many ancient structures. Concrete technology was known by the Ancient Romans and was widely used within the Roman Empire. After the Empire passed, use of concrete became scarce until the technology was re-pioneered in the mid-18th century. The widespread use of concrete in many Roman structures has ensured that many survive to the present day. The development of reinforced concrete marked the dawn of a new age. For it was the first heterogeneous building material, using steel, cement, sand, gravel, and water. This composition possessed much better properties than each of its individual components.