2,200-year-old Roman shipwreck reveals ancient waterproofing secrets

Scientists analyzing a 2,200-year-old Roman shipwreck found that its hull was coated with pine tar and, in one area, a mixture of tar and beeswax. Pollen trapped in those ancient coatings acted like a geographic fingerprint, revealing the landscapes surrounding the ship when repairs were made. For as long as people have traveled by sea, ships have needed protection from water, salt, microorganisms, and marine animals such as worms [1].

Sources

1. sciencedaily.com · 2,200-year-old Roman shipwreck reveals ancient waterproofing secrets Aug 21, 2026

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