THE HISTORY OF THE EMERGENCE OF CONCRETE AS A PROGRESSIVE BUILDING MATERIAL
Keywords:
concrete, cement, concrete mix, construction technologies, building materials, limestone, sand, gypsum, reinforced concrete, reinforcement, structure, scientific research, history, compressive strength, modulus of elasticityAbstract
At the outset of its historical journey, humanity recognized the necessity of building strong, weather-resistant, and durable shelters to preserve health and ensure survival. Through experimentation with various natural materials at their disposal, people gained insights into the properties and characteristics of those materials under different conditions. This knowledge allowed them to combine these materials, giving rise to new and distinct building materials and structures.
With the advent of scientific and technological advancements in the late 18th century, a more concerted effort emerged to develop a building material capable of keeping pace with the rapid growth and development of civilization. This innovative material became concrete. Although it has roots in ancient times, concrete underwent significant evolution during the era of industrialization, fueled by the dedicated efforts of various scientists who experimented with its composition to continuously enhance its characteristics. They integrated it with other materials, greatly improving its strength in both compression and tension. This led to the emergence of various types of concrete mixtures, suitable for diverse applications, ranging from construction to medicine.
This article traces the historical development of concrete, from ancient civilizations to modern times. It briefly outlines the components and mineral additives incorporated into concrete mixtures across different periods, as well as the physical properties exhibited by concrete upon hardening. Additionally, it explores the impact of concrete on structural design, architecture, and construction solutions.
A groundbreaking advancement occurred with the introduction of reinforced concrete at the end of the 19th century, fundamentally transforming construction principles and design approaches. This innovation enabled the construction of buildings and structures featuring large spans, considerable heights, and expansive window openings.
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