100 demolition professionals gather for specialist blasting conference

Nearly100 demolition specialists and professionals attended the congress. (PHOTO: DA)

The event focused on technical and safety innovations in demolition blasting, with speakers presenting case studies and practical applications.

The programme, chaired by Martin Hopfe of the DA’s blasting technology committee, also included presentations on structural dynamics, digital advancements, and sustainability in controlled demolitions.

Clarissa Rapps of Wölfel Engineering opened the event with a discussion on selecting appropriate blasting strategies. Using simulations, she explained how feasibility studies guide decision-making for specific structures.

Michael Schneider of Richard Liesegang detailed the demolition of the Rahmedetalbrücke motorway bridge, highlighting the importance of coordination. “Safety was the top priority,” he said, noting measures such as 100 barrier posts to secure the site, as well as attention to animal protection.

Other presentations included an analysis of blast vibrations in large structures by Dr. Ulf Lichte of Lichte Engineering and a case study on evidence collection during planned demolitions by Michael Böhme of Mobiler Bild- und Messdienst.

Ulrike Matthes speaking at the DA Congress on Blasting Engineering. (PHOTO: DA)

Digital tools featured prominently in discussions, with Stefan Gräßle of 3D-Soil showcasing how technology improves project efficiency. “Digitisation is the future and comes in handy in the right place,” he said.

Johannes Hubrich of Regrata Abbruch und Recycling demonstrated methods for dismantling wind energy towers.

Ulrike Matthes, a demolition engineer at Thüringer Sprenggesellschaft, and demolition expert Gerd Vogel gave a detailed presentation on safety and protection measures. 

Eduard Reisch of Reisch Sprengtechnik examined the environmental impact of explosive demolitions, comparing their CO2 footprint to that of mechanical alternatives.

The DA said that, having received positive feedback on the event’s practical focus, it would host similar events in the future.