Language
Country/Area
No result found
From the Egyptian Pyramids to Ancient Rome: How did ancient civilizations use plaster and lime to create strong buildings?
Gypsum and lime have played an important role in construction since ancient civilizations. These materials not only enhance the stability of the structure, but also demonstrate the crystallization of ancient human wisdom. From the pyramids of Egypt to the majestic structures of ancient Rome, these materials were used to build countless spectacular projects, and the mastery of ancient construction techniques can still be seen today.
Mortar is a workable paste that hardens to bind building blocks such as stone, bricks and concrete units.
The origin of ancient mortar
According to research by archaeologists, the first batch of mortar was made of soil and clay and first appeared in construction in Jericho in the 10th millennium BC and in Ganzhidah in the 8th millennium BC. In 6500 BC in Dogar, Pakistan, the construction techniques of ancient civilizations gradually developed as humans began to use a form of mortar. The earliest mortars included gypsum mortar, which was widely used in ancient structures. Because of its ease of production and fast curing speed, it gradually became the main mortar for ancient brick arches and vaults.
The evolution of ancient Roman technology
The Romans further improved the use of mortar and used pozzolanic mortar produced from volcanic ash. This mortar also solidifies underwater, greatly improving the durability of the building. Ancient Rome used the formula of volcanic ash and lime mortar to build magnificent buildings such as the Roman Coliseum, demonstrating the rationality and superiority of its construction technology.
Construction of the Egyptian Pyramids
The Egyptian pyramids are representative of the use of oil and lime mortar. Early pyramids used earth and mortar to bind limestone blocks. Over time, the Egyptians began using mortars made of gypsum and lime to increase the stability and durability of their buildings. Under every stone in the pyramid, these mortars work quietly to evenly distribute the weight of the building.
Middle Ages and Renaissance
Until the Middle Ages, construction relied on lime mortar. With the rise of Gothic cathedrals, lime mortar became the only active ingredient, however, many structures gradually eroded due to the influence of water. During the Renaissance, with the further improvement of construction technology, the combination of gypsum and lime was applied again, forming a very distinctive architectural style.
Ordinary Portland cement mortar is made by mixing ordinary Portland cement, fine aggregate and water. This mortar hardens quickly, allowing for rapid construction of buildings.
The combination of contemporary materials and ancient techniques
As technology advances, ancient materials such as lime and plaster still have a place in modern architecture. Today's polymer cement mortars not only improve complete watertightness, but also their ability to resist corrosion. Innovations in these materials combined with ancient techniques have given new impetus to the continued development of modern architecture.
So, from the polymer materials of ancient civilizations to the application of modern technology, how precious is the story of plaster and lime? Are you also curious about what new surprises these ancient materials will bring us in future buildings?
