From extemporised to engineered: advances in concrete technology during the First World War

Abstract

This paper provides an assessment of the increase in knowledge of concrete technology, and its military application, during the First World War. The paper illustrates the level of concrete knowledge at the beginning of the war and the rapid expansion of technology during the last 12 months of the conflict. Examples are given of early, generally poor-quality constructions (albeit built under extremely strenuous and dangerous conditions), with details of later experimental work and subsequent increases in the structural integrity of both in situ and pre-cast structures. Examples are also given of high-quality, strong and durable structures which still exist in France and Belgium.