15 Forgotten Materials That Could Change Modern Engineering

These 15 materials, used or discovered in the past, could inspire breakthroughs in modern engineering if their properties are fully understood and applied.

Sophia Zapanta
November 20, 2025
4 min read

15 Forgotten Materials That Could Change Modern Engineering — The Portable Antiquities Scheme on Wikimedia Commons

Throughout history, civilizations developed materials with unique strength, flexibility, or chemical properties. Many of these substances were lost, overlooked, or forgotten over time. Rediscovering or replicating them could revolutionize construction, energy, and manufacturing today.

1. 1. Roman Concrete

Roman concrete, used in structures like the Pantheon, was more durable than most modern concrete. Its mixture of volcanic ash and lime allowed it to set underwater and resist cracking. Modern engineers study it to create longer-lasting, sustainable structures. Reproducing its formula could reduce the environmental impact of concrete production.

2. 2. Damascus Steel

Rahil Alipour Ata Abadi on Wikimedia Commons

Damascus steel, used in swords from the Middle East, was known for its strength, flexibility, and unique wavy patterns. The exact ancient method for producing it was lost. Metallurgists are studying its microstructure to inspire advanced alloys. Modern materials could benefit from combining toughness and lightness like Damascus steel.

3. 3. Lapis Lazuli-Based Pigments

Ancient civilizations used pigments made from ground lapis lazuli in art and decoration. These pigments resisted fading and chemical changes over centuries. Understanding their chemical stability could improve coatings and paints in engineering. They demonstrate how mineral-based compounds can outperform synthetic alternatives.

4. 4. Obsidian

Obsidian is a volcanic glass used for cutting tools in prehistoric times. Its sharp edges are far finer than modern steel blades. Studying obsidian microstructures could inspire new surgical tools or micro-cutting instruments. Ancient material science may guide precision engineering innovations.

5. 5. Egyptian Blu

Egyptian blue was a synthetic pigment made over 4,500 years ago. It has unique luminescent properties, reflecting infrared light. Modern researchers explore its use in solar panels and photonics, while the ancient pigment demonstrates advanced chemical knowledge.

6. 6. Mastic Resin

Mastic, a natural tree resin, was used in the Mediterranean for adhesives, waterproofing, and medicine. Its chemical properties make it resistant to heat and decay. Modern engineers are experimenting with it for eco-friendly coatings and composites. Rediscovering its applications could reduce reliance on synthetic polymers.

7. 7. Roman Glass

Roman glass was often chemically stabilized and highly transparent. Some artifacts survived centuries without significant degradation. Studying its composition could inform modern glass manufacturing. Applications include stronger windows and chemical-resistant containers.

8. 8. Indian Wootz Steel

Wootz steel, developed in India, is a high-carbon steel with exceptional toughness. It was used for blades and armor centuries ago. Metallurgists analyze its microstructure to inspire modern high-strength alloys. Ancient techniques could reduce the need for costly modern steel treatments.

9. 9. Plant-Based Composites

Ancient builders used fibers from hemp, flax, and palm in construction materials. These composites were light, strong, and resistant to environmental stress. Modern engineering could adapt these methods for sustainable building materials. This could lower carbon footprints and increase durability.

10. 10. Papyrus-Based Laminate

Papyrus sheets layered with natural resins created flexible yet strong surfaces in ancient Egypt. The technique was used for boats and packaging. Modern materials science could recreate similar laminates for lightweight engineering solutions. They demonstrate early understanding of structural layering.

11. 11. Tufa Stone

Tufa, a volcanic limestone, was used in Roman and Etruscan architecture. It is lightweight, insulating, and durable when cured. Studying its properties could improve modern eco-construction materials. It’s an example of naturally sustainable building materials.

12. 12. Gutta-Percha

Gutta-percha, a latex material from Southeast Asia, was used for insulation in 19th-century telegraph cables. It is flexible, waterproof, and electrically resistant. Modern applications could include bio-based insulating materials. Rediscovering its production could reduce reliance on plastics.

13. 13. Natural Asphalt

Ancient civilizations used asphalt for waterproofing and construction. Its adhesive and flexible properties were unmatched at the time. Modern engineers study it for sustainable pavements and protective coatings. Historical sources may provide cleaner extraction techniques.

14. 14. Lime Mortar with Pozzolans

Ancient builders mixed lime with volcanic ash (pozzolan) to create mortar stronger than ordinary lime. Some Roman structures have survived for nearly 2,000 years. Modern engineers are exploring its use in eco-friendly construction. It offers lessons in durability and carbon reduction.

15. 15. Ancient Alloys from Bog Iron

Iron extracted from bogs in Europe was alloyed with carbon and other minerals to produce corrosion-resistant tools. The exact compositions varied, and some formulas are now lost. Understanding them could improve modern alloy design. They demonstrate ancient metallurgical sophistication.