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flag Roman concrete self-repaired via hot-mix method with quicklime and volcanic ash, MIT study finds.

flag A newly uncovered construction site in Pompeii, buried in 79 CE, reveals ancient Romans used a "hot-mix" method to make self-healing concrete by mixing quicklime with volcanic ash before adding water, creating heat and durable lime clasts that repair cracks. flag This advanced technique, confirmed by MIT researchers and published in Nature Communications, contrasts with earlier beliefs based on Vitruvius and shows Romans achieved long-lasting structures through sophisticated, intentional engineering. flag The discovery offers new insights into Roman construction and may inspire more sustainable, durable concrete today.

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