FCC Construcción is using bulk emulsion technology in the "Neom Running Tunnels" project in Saudi Arabia. This innovative construction technology is based on the use of non-explosive chemical products (emulsion matrix and oxidising agents) transported in special trucks to the tunnel's working face.

During transport it is classified as oxidising agent 5.1 and when sensitised inside the borehole, it becomes explosive class 1.3.

The main advantage of this technology lies in safety, sustainability and time improvement. Improved safety and sustainability due to less gas production, avoiding cartridge and detonating cord failures. It also saves time by reducing the number of blastholes as well as the delivery chain, making it possible to store more inert product on site compared to the amount of explosives.

In January 2024, FCC Construcción carried out the first bulk emulsion blasting in tunnels of the NEOM project.

"Neom Running Tunnels has the following construction figures:

• 12 fronts working at the same time
• 25% of the excavated length at 8.7 kilometres
• 2,118 blasts
• Excavation rate: 1.2 km/month
• Lining started at 1.4 kilometres completed
• Workforce: 3,655 people of 39 different nationalities

An iconic project executed by a leading international infrastructure company with more than 120 years of experience.