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The Infernal Machine

99% Invisible

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From Danger to Innovation: The Birth of Dynamite

The concept of using a small explosion to trigger a larger one led to the invention of dynamite, revolutionizing the construction industry. Following a tragic accident where a lab explosion killed a family member, the need for safer handling of nitroglycerin became paramount. The breakthrough came from observing local sand, which when mixed with nitroglycerin created a stable paste, minimizing the risk of accidental detonations. This innovation not only provided a safer means of working with explosives but also fundamentally transformed the infrastructure development of modern society.

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