Introduction
Concrete is one of the most widely used construction material globally. However, it has certain disadvantages like high permeability, low tensile strength and cracking. Fiber reinforced concrete is a recent development which overcomes these limitations of conventional concrete. It is a composite material consisting of concrete reinforced with fibrous material which increases its structural integrity. Let’s deep dive into the world of fiber reinforced concrete.
Types of Fibers Used
There are various types of fibers that can be used for reinforcing concrete. The selection depends on the requirements and budget.
Steel Fibers: These are the most widely used fiber for reinforcement. Steel fibers increase toughness, flexural strength and abrasion resistance of concrete. They are highly effective in controlling cracks.
Synthetic Fibers: Synthetics fibers like polypropylene, polyvinyl alcohol and nylon are used. They are cost effective and impart various properties like impact resistance and tensile strength.
Glass Fibers: Glass fibers enhance mechanical strength and ductility of concrete. Alkali resistant glass fibers last long in alkaline concrete environment.
Natural Fibers: Fibers obtained from plants like coconut, sisal, jute etc. are being explored for their green properties. However, their stability and strength properties need improvement.
Working Mechanism of Fibers
The mechanism through which fibers reinforce concrete can be summarized as:
Fibers act as barriers to initiation and propagation of micro-cracks in concrete under stresses.
Fibers bridge the cracks and restrict their widening even after failure. This contributes to concrete’s toughness.
Fibers hold the concrete material after complete fragmentation leading to multiple micro-cracking and arresting of crack propagation.
Bond strength development between fiber and cementitious matrix transfers loads effectively.
Applications of Fiber Reinforced Concrete
Coherent Market Insights discusses various Fiber Reinforced Concrete Market applications as followed:
With its advantages, fiber reinforced concrete has opened doors to many applications:
Industrial Floors: Used in factory floors that undergo vibrations and heavy loads of Forklifts Trucks.
Overlays: Used in bridge deck overlays, parking decks, warehouse floors etc. for crack control.
Pre-Cast Products: Helps in easy handling and placement of precast walls, columns during construction.
Shotcrete: Valuable for rock stabilisation, tunnel lining where accessibility is difficult.
Slabs and Pavements: Fiber reinforcement improves mechanical properties of slabs and pavements.
Roof Tiles: Fiber makes roof tiles stronger, lighter and reduces propagation of cracks.
Benefits of Fiber Reinforced Concrete
The benefits of using fiber reinforced concrete over plain concrete are manifold:
Increased Toughness and Crack Resistance: Fibers inhibit crack initiation and arrest crack propagation.
Improved Flexural and Tensile Strength: Fibers improve flexibility and ability to withstand tensile stresses.
Reduced Permeability: Finer and less permeable microstructure due to fiber bridging action.
Shrinkage Cracking Control: Fibers accommodate shrinkage stresses and restrict cracking.
Improved Abrasion Resistance: Fibers enhance resistance to wear and abrasion.
Durability: Longer service life of structure due to protection against various agents of deterioration.
Crackless Surface Finish: Earlier and faster application without cracks during placement.
Lesser Bleed Water and Segregation: Fibers hold the mix together and result in better quality concrete.
Economy: Added initial cost is offset by reduced maintenance and extended structure life.
Market Outlook
The global fiber reinforced concrete market is projected to grow rapidly driven by extensive construction activities worldwide. North America currently dominates the market owing to large infrastructure projects and renovation activities in the region. However, Asia Pacific is identified as the future growth hotspot supported by ongoing urbanization and industrialization in China and India. Factors fueling the market growth include rising need for durable and sustainable construction materials, stringent building codes, and growing repair and rehabilitation activities of aged structures. For more detailed analysis on latest trends, opportunities and projections, refer the research report published by Coherent Market Insights.
Conclusion
To conclude, fiber reinforced concrete has revolutionized the concrete industry by addressing key limitations of conventional concrete. With their manifold advantages, fibers are surely the reinforcement material of future supporting green, efficient and long lasting construction. Widespread acceptance of fiber reinforced concrete globally depends on further development in fiber technology and lowering of costs.
