NEW TECHNOLOGICAL SOLUTIONS ADDRESS ECONOMIC AND TECHNICAL CHALLENGES IN ROCKFALL PREVENTION ON THE KHANH HOA – BUON MA THUOT EXPRESSWAY

Survey of the project's current conditions: The rock slopes are moderately to heavily weathered, with strong to very strong fracturing.

According to on-site geological assessments, many sections of the rock slope in Component 3 are moderately to heavily weathered and exhibit extensive fracturing. The loosened rock masses have lost structural cohesion, forming sliding surfaces that incline toward the roadbed. In several locations, unstable rock blocks create “frog jaw” formations, posing a significant landslide risk to the foundation. As a result, slope reinforcement and rockfall prevention are essential.

Vinh Hung is deploying a proven solution involving high-strength steel mesh combined with anchors—an approach previously implemented successfully in major infrastructure projects such as the Son La Bypass, the Mai Son – National Route 45 Expressway, the National Route 45 – Nghi Son Expressway, and the Ha Long – Van Don Expressway. At the Khanh Hoa – Buon Ma Thuot Expressway, the solution includes two primary components:
- High-strength steel mesh: Prevents rock blocks from detaching from the slope surface.
- Anchors: Stabilize the slope and secure the mesh in place.

The steel mesh, treated with special anti-corrosion technology and an opaque white coating, blends harmoniously with the natural rock, maintaining visual appeal. Vegetation is expected to regrow over the slope after reinforcement.

This high-strength steel mesh and anchor system is a flexible solution suitable for all slope types without adding significant load. The mesh's open design preserves natural surface drainage, prevents groundwater pressure buildup, and eliminates the need for a separate drainage system.

The steel mesh is coated with advanced anti-corrosion technology, extending its durability for up to 50 years depending on environmental conditions. Maintenance is straightforward: damaged mesh sections can be easily replaced with new panels. Moreover, the solution allows for rapid installation without the need for heavy machinery, ensuring minimal disruption to traffic flow during construction.

Sections of the project already completed using the slope reinforcement solution with high-strength steel mesh, anchors, and Neoweb.

To date, Vinh Hung has completed rockfall prevention measures on several project segments. Driven by the spirit of “overcoming sun and rain,” and with tireless efforts—“working three shifts, four crews, through holidays and Tet”—Vinh Hung’s engineers and workers are expediting the implementation of slope protection and the installation of soundproof walls. The entire scope of work is scheduled for completion and handover to the investor by August 2025.

According to the project timeline, Component 3 (Km69+500 to Km117+500) will see partial operation in high-traffic sections by 2025, full route completion by 2026, and synchronized operation of the entire expressway by 2027.

Video: Introduction to Vinh Hung’s slope reinforcement and rockfall prevention solution.