The Simple Genius of Fiber Reinforced Concrete
In order to get the most out of fiber concrete, you must have a uniform dispersal of the fiber content throughout. These fibers increase the structural integrity of the concrete, and often include materials such as steel and natural or synthetic fibers. These materials have specific outcomes on the fiber reinforced concrete, and each needs a different distribution ratio. When executed correctly, these fibers impact the durability and flexibility of the concrete.
Should You Use Fiber Concrete?
Concrete by itself can be sleek, incredibly durable and reasonably cheap. So what are the biggest benefits of fiber reinforced concrete? If you want to increase the toughness and durability of your concrete, fiber concrete is an easy way to do so. Incorporating materials such as polypropylene to patios, driveways, and commercial flat work, gives the structure secondary reinforcement, therefore improving durability. This is perfect for houses, large-scale apartments and commercial builds. Fiber reinforced concrete also has reduced chances of cracking at certain dosages. We’re experts in our fiber concrete mixtures, and are happy to advise and explain which materials suit your job best!
Madison, Wisconsin's History with Fiber Reinforced Concrete
The state of Wisconsin has made the news multiple times because of the awesome, innovative work at UW-Madison regarding fiber reinforced concrete. In this article, Renee Meiller states “All coupling beams in the 1.5 million-square-foot Lincoln Square Expansion — which includes luxury condos, a hotel, dining, retail and office space in two 450-foot towers in the heart of Seattle suburb Bellevue, Washington — are made of fiber reinforced concrete using a unique design co-developed by Gustavo Parra-Montesinos, Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering at UW–Madison.” Incorporating steel fibers into the concrete mix speeds up and simplifies the complex labyrinth of rebar in traditional high rise designs.
