Rockfall events rarely consist of a single, isolated block. In reality, several rocks often affect protection systems simultaneously and at different positions. To better reflect these conditions, Geobrugg is continuing its advanced testing program with a simultaneous impact test on a ROCCO‑500 kJ rockfall protection barrier.

In this test configuration, two blocks hit the barrier simultaneously, each with an impact energy of 250 kJ, for a combined energy of 500 kJ. The impacts are deliberately asymmetric: one block targets the center field, while the second strikes the adjacent border field.

This setup enables Geobrugg’s engineers to study load interaction, force transmission, and deformation behavior across neighboring fields. The test provides valuable insights into how flexible barriers respond when energy is distributed unevenly, a common situation in natural rockfall scenarios.

The findings will contribute to the ongoing development and optimization of rockfall protection systems and support a testing philosophy that goes beyond standardized laboratory conditions.

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Quote – Helene Lanter, Head of Research and Development at Geobrugg (CTO)
“With these tests, we systematically expand our understanding of how protection systems behave under realistic conditions. ROCCO barriers are engineered to perform reliably even when impacts occur simultaneously and outside the idealized test scenarios.”
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Testing Beyond the Standard Load Case
Conventional approval tests defined in current guidelines apply a single impact to the center of the central field. While this approach ensures repeatability, it does not capture the complexity of real rockfall events, where blocks may hit border fields, posts, or corners simultaneously.

Experience from previous large-scale tests indicates that simultaneous impacts can generate higher peak forces, as deformation possibilities are more limited. The butterfly net geometry of the ROCCO system is specifically designed to address this challenge by enabling additional deformation paths and improved load redistribution.

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 Why This Test Matters
• Rockfalls are increasing due to climate change and extreme weather
• Standardized procedures do not reflect reality
• Multiple impacts and fragmented blocks are the rule in nature
• Geobrugg is the first company worldwide to implement this new testing method
• Simultaneous maximum energy level test with two blocks (each 50% energy) – center field + border field
• 32 meters/105 ft fall height, 25 m/s 82 ft/s impact velocity, two blocks of 800 kg / 1764 lb each

• Expectation: higher peak forces than standard MEL tests; net geometry is crucial
• Context: supplementing established test procedures with more realistic load cases (EAD 340059-00-0106, formerly ETAG 027)

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What Defines the ROCCO Barrier Concept
ROCCO rockfall protection barriers are engineered for multiple, eccentric, and high-frequency impacts. Their butterfly net geometry supports controlled deformation and effective force redistribution across the system. Geobrugg’s extended testing approach also includes additional hazard scenarios, such as tree impacts and shallow landslides, addressing the growing complexity of natural hazards.

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About Geobrugg – Safety is our nature
True to this guiding principle, we have been developing and manufacturing protection solutions since 1951. High-tensile steel wire nets and matching services monitor and protect against natural hazards such as rockfall, landslides, debris flow, avalanches, or coastal erosion. They ensure safety in tunneling and mining, motor racing tracks, industry, and test facilities. With experience, research spirit, continuous internal training, and close cooperation with research institutes, we drive innovation and industry standards forward.

More than 500 specialists worldwide are committed to Geobrugg. Production facilities on all continents and a presence in over 50 countries ensure proximity to customers and fast project implementation—from needs analysis to final acceptance. Geobrugg, headquartered in Romanshorn, Switzerland, is an independent company within the BRUGG Group.

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Video and Images of the Test on April 29, 2026