Polymacro fibers, made of 100% virgin copolymer polypropylene, have been designed to develop excellent bond within the concrete matrix by its innovative emboss shape specifically for shotcrete applications and tunnel linings to increase impact and flexural resistance.
Usage Instructions and Mixing
Depending on the project requirements, dosages vary between 3 pcy and 12 pcy. Homogeneous mixture is obtained by addition of fibers to central mixer at concrete batching plant or by mixing in a concrete mixer truck at high speed for at least 5 minutes. It is recommended to use plasticizer additives in high doses.
Dosing
Macro synthetic fibers can be used as reinforcement in concrete replacing (fully or partially) welded wire mesh, #3, #4 rebars and steel fibers for many applications. The engineering department provides technical assistance based on the ACI- American Concrete Institute performance requirements for necessary project calculations such as residual flexural capacity calculations and energy (joule) absorption values.
Technical Advantages
- Fiber distribution throughout the concrete matrix creates a three-dimensional reinforcement network that allows high level energy absorption and toughness.
- Eliminates the risk of corrosion when used in lieu of steel fiber and wire mesh reinforcement, hence the crack-width limitation for durability becomes obsolete.
- The great number of fibers resulted by its low density allows to achieve three-dimensional reinforcement in the concrete matrix.
- Mitigates overall shrinkage/temperature related cracks.
- 100% alkali resistant. Non-corrosive. No chemical reaction.
- Increased shatter, impact and abrasion resistance of the concrete surface thanks to more robust concrete matrix by reducing plastic shrinkage cracks in the very beginning.
- Supports the concrete matrix exposed to extreme levels of freeze/thaw and chemical environments.
- Eliminates the need for wire mesh, #3, #4 rebar and steel fiber by providing residual flexural strength to concrete in many applications.
- These features enhance crack control under high stress, minimize shrinkage, provide resilience, ductility, better durability and extended service life of concrete and shotcrete elements.
Application and Cost Advantages
- Saves time from handling the steel on site.
- Significantly increases construction speed and reduces direct labor costs.
- Reduces slab thickness as concrete cover is not needed anymore thanks to being non-corrosive.
- Prevention of corrosion increases service life and reduces maintenance costs.
- Eliminates the labor related risks and removes potential hazards from the work site related to welded wire mesh, rebars and steel fibers.
- Lowers the carbon footprint greatly when used in lieu of steel fiber and wire mesh reinforcement.
- Does not damage construction equipment such as steel fiber.
- Reduces the cost of storage and freight and can be stored long-term.
- Achieves substantial cost savings as overall system cost is much lower.
Compliance with Industry Standards and Services
- Conforming ASTM C1116 Type III, ASTM D7508, EN 14889-2 Type II.
- Produced in ISO certified facilities.
- Providing complimentary engineering design service to on-site coordination for fiber reinforced concrete projects and dosage information based on ACI and ASTM guidelines.
- Alternative packaging options to ease usage on site.