The company said Riogel, the latest generation of high-energy cartridge watergel, allowed for optimal rock fragmentation and, thus, greater mine productivity. It can also create adequate blasting results, because it reacts better under dynamic pressure.

"With a better balance of oxygen in its composition, Riogel reduces the emission of toxic fumes such as nitrogen oxide (NOx) and carbon monoxide (CO), shortening the return times to blasting fronts, thus, optimising the operations' performance," the company said.

The manufacturing process, too, requires 95% less water than an emulsion, giving it an environmental advantage.

Maxam provides solutions to Peru, Chile, Ecuador, Bolivia and the rest of South America.