In the bustling city of Delhi, among its many historical treasures, stands an ancient iron pillar that has defied time.
For over 1,600 years, this marvel has resisted rust and weathering, sparking curiosity and speculation about its origins.
Modern researchers now have answers to some of its mysteries, but the story of the pillar still captivates those who study it, according to pastchronicle.
The iron pillar, located within the Qutb Minar complex, is thought to have been constructed during the Gupta Empire, around the 4th or 5th century AD.
Originally, it may have stood at a temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu in Madhya Pradesh before being moved to Delhi.
Towering nearly seven meters and weighing six tons, it is a remarkable achievement of ancient Indian metallurgy.
In-Depth Study Conducted
What makes the pillar so extraordinary is its resistance to corrosion. Exposed to Delhi's heat, humidity, and pollution, it remains virtually untouched by rust.
For centuries, people speculated about its origins, with theories ranging from the existence of an ancient advanced civilization to alien intervention. Recent scientific studies have provided more grounded explanations.
Researchers from the University of Delhi conducted an in-depth study of the pillar’s composition and manufacturing process.
They discovered that ancient metalworkers achieved an astonishing 98% purity in the iron.
This was accomplished by heating the iron to high temperatures, not enough to melt it but sufficient to create a soft, spongy material.
Impurities were hammered out, and the resulting pieces, resembling pancakes, were layered and fused to form the pillar.
The key to the pillar’s resistance lies in its high phosphorus content. Phosphorus facilitates the formation of a protective oxide layer that prevents rust.
This film reduces corrosion to just 0.040 mm per year, ensuring the pillar’s preservation.
