The Lasting Power of Man-Made Structures

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the longevity of man-made structures, specifically focusing on large-scale constructions that can endure for thousands of years. Participants highlight that structures like bridges, habitable space vehicles, and even footprints on the moon could last significantly longer than typical terrestrial constructions. The consensus indicates that while space offers a vacuum that preserves materials, terrestrial structures face challenges from weather and scavengers, leading to a belief that stone constructions, such as Roman ruins, are the most enduring. Overall, the durability of materials and environmental factors play crucial roles in the longevity of human-made structures.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of structural engineering principles
  • Knowledge of materials science, particularly regarding stone and ceramics
  • Familiarity with environmental impacts on construction longevity
  • Awareness of space construction challenges and preservation techniques
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the durability of stone versus modern materials in construction
  • Explore the effects of environmental factors on structural integrity over time
  • Investigate preservation techniques for structures in extraterrestrial environments
  • Study historical examples of long-lasting structures, such as Roman architecture
USEFUL FOR

Architects, structural engineers, historians, and anyone interested in the longevity and preservation of man-made structures in various environments.

wolram
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What man made structure (large scale) can endure the longest time, i am not thinking pyramid more an/or more oom longer.
 
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Ummm...what? What do you consider "large scale?"
 
FredGarvin said:
Ummm...what? What do you consider "large scale?"

A home, a bridge, a habitable space vehicle.
 
Build something on our moon.
Even a footprint stands a chance of lasting a few hundred thousand years.

Biggest problem would be the stray meteor going splat.
 
NoTime said:
Build something on our moon.
Even a footprint stands a chance of lasting a few hundred thousand years.

Biggest problem would be the stray meteor going splat.

Yes a vacuum is a good preserver, i was thinking of some thing that has to withstand the elements, either on some planet or in space.
 
Space is much the same as the moon if you have a stable orbit.

On a planet with weather and intelligent scavengers I would really tend to doubt that you would find any trace of tech in, say our civilization, after 5 to 10k years.
Perhaps the occasional rock pile and odd bit of ceramic.

In large areas of the world what currently exists isn't tremendously different from what you might have found 3000 years ago.
 
It's pretty apparent from all of the artifacts ever found that stone is the way to go for longevity. Look at all of the Roman ruins that are still around.
 

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