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Synopsis
Concrete Reinforcement, Fiber Reinforcement for Concrete
Fiber reinforcement protects concrete. It minimizes cracking as the concrete dries and it helps hold the concrete together if cracks develop after the concrete has hardened. Fibers are also available for decorative concrete.
by Loretta Hall
in two ways. Mainly, it minimizes cracking from plastic shrinkage that occurs as the concrete dries during the first 24 hours after placement. Also, it helps hold the concrete together if cracks develop after the concrete has hardened. Several types of fibers are available for decorative concrete applications.
Sandy Stewart, marketing manager for Propex Concrete Systems, recommends her company’s Fibermesh 150 product. “It’s a microsynthetic monofilament, or single-strand, fiber,” she says. “The reason you would use a monofilament fiber is for finishing and aesthetics.”
The fibers are compatible with regular finishing techniques, and any fibers that might appear on the surface would be worn away by foot or vehicle traffic, according to Propex brochures. Typically applied at a rate of 1 pound per cubic yard of concrete, Fibermesh prevents 80 to 100 percent of all plastic-state cracks. The company’s patented e3 technology produces varying lengths and thicknesses of fibers. Stewart says this helps distribute the fibers throughout the concrete, much like graded aggregate improves distribution.
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