Several years before Aspdin’s patent, French engineer Louis Vicat conducted systematic studies to develop a hydraulic binder capable of hardening both in air and underwater. In 1817, he succeeded in creating this groundbreaking material, which proved essential for constructing lighthouses and bridges. Vicat openly shared his discoveries, which were published in French in 1828 and translated into English in 1837, paving the way for further advancements.
In contrast, Aspdin’s patent lacked scientific rigor and detail. It is unlikely he ever succeeded in producing what we now recognize as “Portland cement.” It wasn’t until 1844/45 that it became clear clinker needed to be burned at much higher temperatures (2642 °F) to achieve the desired properties. However, Aspdin cleverly named his product “Portland cement,” likely to associate it with the high-quality limestone from the Isle of Portland in England, whose appearance resembled this new material.
Although the cement patented in 1824 is not exactly the same as modern Portland cement, it marked the beginning of a development that has shaped the entire construction industry.
John Smeaton and early advancements
Another pivotal figure in this history is John Smeaton, born 300 years ago this year and widely regarded as the first civil engineer. While constructing the Eddystone Lighthouse in 1756, he rediscovered Roman construction techniques and provided critical insights that advanced the development of hydraulic binders.
The contributions of Smeaton and Vicat spurred research that laid the foundation for modern cement types. Over time, understanding of cement clinker minerals and hydration evolved, with Henry-Louis Le Châtelier’s work in 1887 playing a key role in advancing the field.
From history to the future
Reflecting on this historic year, I am reminded that it also marks 25 years since I began my research in concrete—a brief period in the long history of this material. My journey was made possible by a donation from our founder, Martin Thomas, to Chalmers University of Technology.
To connect this 200-year legacy, the Thomas Concrete Group’s Strategic Development Committee, including myself, recently visited Vicat and the Vicat family in France. Our discussions focused on innovations that could shape the future of the cement and concrete industries. These conversations covered a range of technical solutions, from low-carbon additives to cutting-edge scientific innovations, as well as emerging startups proposing breakthrough ideas.
Future challenges and opportunities
Achieving climate-neutral concrete is one of our primary goals. We are exploring how natural and man-made pozzolans can help reduce concrete’s environmental footprint. By combining historical methods with modern technology and scientific advancements, we believe we can achieve climate neutrality by 2030.
The challenges ahead are significant, but progress in this area is advancing rapidly and offers great promise. I am confident that concrete and hydraulic binders will remain indispensable to the construction industry, with an increasing emphasis on environmental impact and durability.
The goal of climate-neutral concrete production is ambitious, but thanks to the contributions of historical pioneers and current developments, it is within reach. To succeed, society and the industry must increase investments in both basic and applied research.
History also reminds us that the most impactful innovations are not always the ones that generate the most buzz. True progress comes from technologies that are science-based, scalable, and capable of making a meaningful difference in addressing climate change.