From Julius Caesar to Sustainable Composite Materials: A Passage through Port Caisson Technology

Eduardo Cejuela,Vicente Negro,José López-Gutiérrez,María Esteban,José Ortega

doi:10.3390/su10041225

Eduardo Cejuela, Vicente Negro + Show 3 more

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041225

Copy DOI

Abstract

The breakwater construction technique using floating concrete caissons is well-known nowadays as a widespread system. Yet do we really know its origin? Since Julius Caesar used this technology in Brindisi (Italy) up to the Normandy landings in June 1944, not only has this technology been developed, but it has been a key item in several moments in history. Its development has almost always been driven by military requirements. The greatest changes have not been conceptual but point occurring, backed by the materials used. Parallelisms can be clearly seen in each new stage: timber, opus caementitium (Roman concrete), iron and concrete… However, nowadays, achieving a more sustainable world constitutes a major challenge, to which the construction of caissons breakwaters must contribute as a field of application of new eco-friendly materials. This research work provides a general overview from the origins of caissons until our time. It will make better known the changes that took place in the system and their adaptation to new materials, and will help in clarifying the future in developing technology towards composite sustainable materials and special concrete. If we understand the past, it will be easier to define the future.

Highlights

Since man had the courage and technology to sail far beyond rivers into the open sea, he needed a refuge for his ships, whether natural or artificial
Parallelisms can be clearly seen in each new stage: timber, opus caementitium (Roman concrete), iron and concrete . . . nowadays, achieving a more sustainable world constitutes a major challenge, to which the construction of caissons breakwaters must contribute as a field of application of new eco-friendly materials
It is important to emphasize that this new material contributes to sustainability from the point of view of the less time and complexity related to the construction operations, as well as the lower volume of reinforced concrete used in the construction of the caissons

Summary

Introduction

Since man had the courage and technology to sail far beyond rivers into the open sea, he needed a refuge for his ships, whether natural or artificial. At the end of the 19th century, timber and the Romans’ opus caementitium gave way to metal caissons These were later dominated by concrete, which led to new shapes adapted to the different breakwater uses, as well as industrialization of the construction process. It is important to emphasize that this new material contributes to sustainability from the point of view of the less time and complexity related to the construction operations, as well as the lower volume of reinforced concrete used in the construction of the caissons Regarding these new materials used in the maritime industry, their development may lead us to recommence the cycle and sink “boats” to build breakwaters as the Romans did. This research work would like to cast an historical light, as complete as possible, on this caisson technology in order to know what was already done, which has often been reinvented again and again, either by forgetfulness or lack of knowledge, and its future, keeping in mind its contribution to sustainability; let us avoid “all novelty is but oblivion” [3] happening to us

The Roman Age

From the Renaissance to the Enlightenment

Present and Future of Caisson Breakwaters Technology

Reflections

Findings

Conclusions