Cardboard.

Architecture has many forms and materials, from impressive steel constructions to fragile works of art made of papier-mache. But imagine that we are faced with the challenge of building a viaduct, not of concrete or steel, but of… cardboard or tissue paper! While both choices may seem odd at first glance, building a cardboard overpass may be the better of the two. Here are five reasons why.

1. Strength and Durability:
Cardboard, although not particularly strong compared to traditional building materials, still has a certain strength. Blotting paper, on the other hand, is extremely thin and fragile. A cardboard construction would therefore remain intact much longer than one made of tissue paper.

2. Flexibility in Design:
Cardboard makes it easier to create different shapes and structures, such as folding and cutting, without immediately breaking the material. Blotting paper would tear with the slightest effort.

3. Resistance To Elements:
While cardboard is certainly not waterproof, it does provide some protection against light moisture. Blotting paper would fall apart at the slightest contact with water.

4. Scalability:
If you want to build a larger model of a flyover, cardboard offers more stability and support, especially compared to the almost weightless tissue paper.

5. Reusability:
Cardboard can be reused in different shapes and sizes if the first design doesn't work. With blotting paper, any mistake is final, given the fragility of the material.

Conclusion:
While the thought of building a viaduct out of cardboard or tissue paper certainly captures the imagination, there are clear advantages to choosing cardboard. From sustainability to design freedom, cardboard is head and shoulders above tissue paper. But who knows? Maybe future engineers will find a way to realize the unthinkable and build a beautiful, albeit temporary, blotting paper overpass! Until then, cardboard remains our best paper choice.