Why has concrete largely replaced natural stone masonry in quay-wall construction?

In the field of civil engineering, concrete has almost universally replaced natural stone masonry for the construction of quay walls primarily due to advancements in production techniques.1

While heavy ashlar (natural rock) masonry was once the standard, it was used during an era when large-scale production methods for concrete were not as well developed as they are today. Modern engineering practices now favor concrete—whether plain or reinforced—because it offers greater versatility and efficiency in meeting specific design requirements.1

The transition away from natural stone is largely a result of the economic and technical advantages provided by the large-scale, standardized production of concrete, which allows for more reliable and adaptable construction processes compared to the labor-intensive shaping and placement of natural stone blocks.1