The History of Aggregates
Since the dawn of time, aggregates have been present. Created by volcanic eruptions and sculpted by erosion, water and time, the history of these fascinating clumps of minerals date way back, before the existence of you, I and all other humans. When humans began to roam the earth, it’s only then when natural materials became essential building blocks, decorating the planet with a wide array of (what would seem to other life forms) strange mounds of earth in the form of pyramids, churches, amphitheatres, bridges – the list goes on.
Aggregates used to make mortar in Egypt
The first type of concrete mixture consisted of gypsum and limestone and was used in ancient Egypt to create the infamous pyramids. This concoction acted as a mortar between stones to construct long-lasting pyramids – with still over 100 standing today! But without the technology that we have today, how did they make the Great Pyramid of Giza that stands tall at 450 feet? It is suggested that Egyptians used a ramp and pulley system to carry alabaster blocks up the pyramid. What made researchers think this? There are stairways featuring a series of dugout holes, which indicates that the Egyptians might have used these to haul the blocks into place.
Aggregates used to make concrete in Roman times
It was in the Roman times when concrete became a more prominent construction material. Their concrete blend included volcanic ash, limestone and saltwater – when combined, made exceptionally strong building material. However unlike today, where we can cure concrete in around 28 days, Roman concrete took significantly longer. This did not deter them though, their impressive engineering led to aqueducts, bridges, roads and buildings like the colosseum – that are still around today. Using rock and concrete, the Romans paved the way for other countries to follow and build the modern world we know today from something as simple and natural as aggregates.
Aggregate in BC
Early Vancouver, the primary building material that was used was wood but this was short-lived after The Great Vancouver Fire destroyed the entire city in under an hour in 1886. It was after this disastrous incident when wood was switched out for brick and stone – to prevent and slow down any future fires. This was the beginning of aggregates fast becoming the number one commodity.
Local sites were built to cater to the increasing demand of aggregates and cement, and to the swift growth of the Lower Mainland. Having these building materials at the ready meant that Vancouver’s infrastructure could be built quickly and economically. It was from here where the industrial and manufacturing sectors expanded into other local areas as the need for building materials became more widespread – activating the requirement for more aggregate supply areas and alternative minerals.
Aggregates today
Today in 2020, we’re able to use aggregates and other natural materials such as steel to erect huge towering structures, which would seem somewhat unimaginable to the Egyptians and Romans way back when. So now that we’re able to use a wide variety of aggregates and tailor each material to ensure optimal results, we really are spoilt for choice! This means that construction has never been better, with fire-resistance buildings, weather-proof structures and exemplary foundations – we have learnt from the past and we’re making an impressive future. With building materials such as primary aggregates, secondary aggregates and recycled aggregates, buildings and architecture as we know it can only get more imaginative from here.
If you require quality aggregates to build your very own long-lasting structure or base. We have a wide variety of aggregates for you to choose from and we’ll deliver whatever it is to your desired location. For more information or to place your order, contact Essex Aggregates today.