Which structural failure was most likely to occur if Roman concrete was cast without pozzolanic ash?

💡 Explanation

If Roman concrete lacked pozzolanic ash, hydration reactions would produce weaker, calcium hydroxide, susceptible to leaching via rainwater and subsequent carbonation, leading to tensile cracking. Therefore, tensile cracking results, rather than compressive crushing, shear failure, or rebar corrosion, each needing alternative, reinforcing mechanisms.

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