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

Scientists analyzing a 2,200-year-old Roman shipwreck found its hull was coated with pine tar, and in one area a mixture of tar and beeswax. Pollen trapped in the ancient coatings acted as a geographic fingerprint, revealing the landscapes surrounding the ship when repairs were made. It is a rare use of pollen analysis to study ancient maritime technology.