A non-explosive demolition agent is a chemical used as an alternative to conventional explosives or gas pressure blasting products during demolition, mining and quarrying. Normally, its active ingredient is calcium oxide "burnt lime" that is mixed with some Portland cement and possibly other modifiers.
The use of non-explosive demolition agents begins by drilling holes into the base of the rock, just like drilling holes when using conventional explosives. The slurry mixture of the agent plus water is then poured into the drill holes. This slurry mixture will expand over the next few hours. The rocks will crack as a result and in a pattern similar to the cracks that would occur when using conventional explosives.
Although in some cases, the conventional explosive is preferred and more economical, here are some advantages of non-explosive demolition:
- Noiseless.
- Safe.
- Does not produce vibration.
- It is available without much restriction in various countries, unlike highly regulated explosives.