Tag: History

Portland Cement: A Concrete History With Structural Integrity

A long time ago, in a civilization far, far away … ancient Romans were already using cement. They formed a hydraulic binder with lime and volcanic ash or pozzolana, a mixture they called Roman cement. Its impressive resistance to seawater made it a great option for constructing aqueducts and other marine structures. But the building… Continue reading Portland Cement: A Concrete History With Structural Integrity

What Medieval Manuscripts Reveal About the Hidden History of Whales | Science

A 1658 map of Iceland, reprinted from Abraham Ortelius’ Theatrum Orbis Terrarum, includes a sea monster known for catching its fish through cunning. Public Domain The creature was enormous. Sailors said it “looked more like an island than a fish.” When feeding, according to a 13th-century Old Norse manuscript, the beast, known as the hafgufa,… Continue reading What Medieval Manuscripts Reveal About the Hidden History of Whales | Science

History of the Watt Steam Engine

These early experiments and innovations marked significant miles in the journey toward harnessing the power of steam. They provided the groundwork for future inventors and engineers to build upon, refine and expand upon these concepts. Hero The origins of steam technology date back to around A.D. 75 when mathematician Hero wrote extensively about air mechanics… Continue reading History of the Watt Steam Engine