The ambitious Oyón-Ambo Highway project in Peru is making headlines not only for its groundbreaking construction in a mountainous region but also for its strategic use of concrete writes Paula Chapple, the Editor of Carretas Pan-Americana (CPA). In a country with extreme terrain variations and challenging climatic conditions, the decision to opt for concrete over traditional asphalt represents a milestone. This 150-kilometer road project will provide a critical alternative route to Peru’s Central Highway, significantly reducing transportation costs and improving access for approximately 140,000 residents in central Peru.
The choice of concrete was driven by the region’s high altitudes, where asphalt roads have historically suffered from freeze-thaw-induced cracking. Concrete’s durability and resilience to tough winter climates made it the preferred option for this rugged terrain. The highway’s construction has been split into three sections, with Section 1 already seeing substantial progress despite facing adverse weather conditions during the rainy season.
Working at altitudes ranging from 3,589 meters to a staggering 4,780 meters, the project has required careful consideration of both construction practices and equipment performance. High-altitude conditions can lead to overheating and decreased engine power, necessitating specialized equipment management to ensure safe and efficient construction.
Innovative methods like the Shilstone method were employed to optimize the concrete mix, enhancing workability and reducing the risk of segregation. Additives were introduced to address freeze/thaw effects and improve waterproofing, while water heaters maintained proper concrete temperatures. More details about the mix design can be found on the original news article (linked below).
The Oyón-Ambo Highway project underscores Peru’s commitment to sustainable and resilient infrastructure development, even in the face of daunting geographical and climatic challenges. By prioritizing concrete as the pavement material of choice, this landmark project is set to improve connectivity and economic opportunities for the region’s inhabitants, demonstrating the importance of innovative solutions in modern infrastructure construction.
Read the full report here.