How FRAKTUREX® Split a Massive Sandstone Boulder During a House Renovation

During the renovation of an old house in the Vipava Valley, Slovenia, a customer faced a difficult challenge: two large sandstone boulders had to be removed from directly beside the building.

Instead of using explosives or heavy demolition machinery, the customer chose FRAKTUREX® non-explosive demolition agent — a quiet, controlled and safe solution for splitting rock and concrete.

The Challenge

The larger boulder was approximately 2 metres high, 3 metres wide and 1.5 metres deep. According to the customer, the rock was mainly sandstone, which is harder than limestone.

Because the rock was located directly next to the existing house structure, traditional demolition methods were not ideal. Explosives were not suitable, and heavy breaking equipment could have caused unnecessary noise, vibration and risk to the surrounding walls.

Preparing the Rock

The customer drilled the rock using a 25 mm drill bit. The holes were drilled approximately 45 cm deep. Preparing the complete drilling pattern took around three hours.

After drilling, the holes were cleaned and filled with properly mixed FRAKTUREX®. The material was poured into the drilled holes, where it gradually expanded and created pressure inside the rock.

Controlled Splitting Without Explosives

FRAKTUREX® works gradually. It does not explode and does not create shock waves. Instead, it expands inside the drilled holes and generates controlled cracking pressure.

In this project, the first cracking sounds and small cracks appeared after approximately two days. By the third day, the sandstone boulder had split completely into smaller sections that could be removed more easily.

Customer Experience

“The biggest challenge was trying something completely new. Neither I nor the construction workers knew how expansive mortar worked, and even the neighbours were sceptical. The greatest relief was discovering that the process is safe and straightforward when basic safety instructions are followed.”

— Customer from Slovenia

Project Summary

Why FRAKTUREX® Was the Right Choice

• No explosives required
• No blasting permits needed
• Low noise during the splitting process
• No harmful vibrations
• Suitable for use near buildings
• Controlled and gradual cracking
• Simple application with standard drilling equipment

Final Result

The project showed that even a large sandstone boulder can be split safely and effectively without explosives. Once the rock cracked into smaller sections, removal became much easier and safer.

For renovation projects, landscaping, foundation work or rock removal near existing buildings, FRAKTUREX® offers a practical alternative to traditional demolition methods.