Natural or Roman cement
Natural cement, initially – though improperly – called “Roman cement”, is quick-setting. It was the first cement in the modern sense of the term, and at the time was a technological breakthrough.
Prompt natural cement
Background
Natural cement as a material for mouldings
The history of concrete, and even 19th century cements, is that of a rediscovery of materials, evolving know-how and architectural transition from craftsmanship to industry. It tells of the discovery of a swathe of forgotten architectural history that we can now use to create new forms.
Key dates
Cement was used by the Egyptians and Romans, but became a technological product after its rediscovery by Louis Vicat at the beginning of the 19th century.