Ancient Roman Discoveries Reveal Extraordinary Properties and Nanotechnology Wonders
Fragments of ancient Roman glass vessels unearthed at archaeological sites have been found to possess photonic crystals, nanostructures that produce unique optical effects. The molecular structure of these glass shards rearranges over thousands of years, resulting in the formation of photonic crystals. The crystals are believed to have grown on the glass surface due to exposure to environmental conditions and changes in pH and groundwater. The unique atomic and material properties of these glass shards could potentially be replicated and accelerated in the lab, offering new ways of growing optical materials.