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Rompex and R3ciclo: Rock Fragmentation on the Rodoanel Highway

A Strategic Challenge for São Paulo's Infrastructure

The Rodoanel Mário Covas (SP-21) is one of the largest highway projects in Brazil, designed to divert heavy traffic away from the urban roads of São Paulo and improve mobility in the metropolitan region. Stretching 176 kilometers, the highway connects the main state and federal highways, reducing congestion and optimizing transport logistics.

The construction of the Rodoanel was divided into four sections: West, South, East, and North. Currently, the North Section is under construction, covering 44 kilometers and connecting the West Section to the Presidente Dutra Highway. Scheduled for completion in 2026, this segment presents significant geotechnical challenges, requiring innovative solutions to overcome the presence of large rock boulders (matacões) along the route.

Image of the Rodoanel North Section

Project Image

R3CICLO’s Role in the Project

Operating in the infrastructure sector, R3ciclo has established itself as a company specialized in executing services that require precision, safety, and operational efficiency. With experience in large-scale projects, the company stands out for using advanced technologies to solve geotechnical challenges and optimize construction processes.

In the North Section of the Rodoanel, R3ciclo was selected to carry out the fragmentation of boulders, a fundamental step for continuing earthworks in Lot 01 – Cut 111.

The team faced several challenges:

  • ✔ Efficient boulder fragmentation without using conventional explosives
  • ✔ Maintaining productivity without significant construction interruptions
  • ✔ High-precision execution, ensuring safety and compliance with project requirements

Given the need for a safe and high-performance method, R3ciclo chose Rompex as the best solution for rock fragmentation on-site.

Rompex: Technology Serving Infrastructure

Rompex stood out as the ideal alternative for rock fragmentation in the North Section of the Rodoanel. Unlike conventional explosives, Rompex provides a safe and controlled approach, allowing for the fragmentation of large rock blocks without requiring special licenses and without the risks associated with explosive detonations.

The application of Rompex in the project ensured:

  • 📌 Fragmentation of over 500 m³ of rock in just 15 days
  • 📌 Safe execution of the service with no negative impacts on the project schedule
  • 📌 High operational efficiency, maintaining the fast pace of construction

Results and Impact on the Project

The work of R3ciclo, combined with Rompex technology, has contributed significantly to the progress of the Rodoanel North Section. Efficient fragmentation of boulders may enable earthworks to proceed as scheduled, ensuring the project continues at an accelerated pace.

In addition to optimizing productivity, the solution provides operational safety for the teams involved, eliminating the risks and bureaucracy associated with using conventional explosives.