Ancient Science : Vigyan
Charm of Charminar
Built in 1591 CE in Hyderabad by Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah, the fifth Sultan of the Qutub Shahi Dynasty, the iconic Charminar has been standing tall for more than four centuries. Studies on all the ingredients that could have been used to make the lime mortar is considered to be the secret to its longevity.
Researchers have revealed that the key component used was water fermented with plant extracts. This fermented plant extract, which was used to mix the lime mortar, contained alcohol which slowed down the process of carbonation. Additionally, the lime mortar was also found to have carbohydrates from plant extracts, which acted as a perfect binding agent that controlled the breaking of the mortar.
Additionally, they also knew the correct lime to sand ratio, which is 1:3. This ratio has been proved to have better mechanical properties, reduce pores and boost carbonisation (the process of making solid carbon).
Do you know?
Charminar is built on a square structure and has four grand arches and four minarets on each corner that are built into the main structure. It is interesting to note that the number ‘char’ or four and its multiples can be figured in at least 22 spots in the design of the structure.
-Dr Shobha Tawade
Team ScienceNow
