Are Synthetic Concrete Fibers a Good Choice for Your Project?

“Producing the perfect concrete has become a kind of philosopher’s stone of the late 20th century.” ― Iain Borden, Forty Ways to Think About Architecture: Architectural History and Theory Today

Just hearing the word “concrete” conjures images of strength and durability. It’s known for being one of the toughest construction materials out there. But like all good things, there’s always room for improvement. Centuries ago, ancient civilizations used fibrous things like straw and even horsehair to bolster their construction materials. Today, the challenge continues:

How can we create an even stronger concrete product using modern materials?

Enter: Synthetic Concrete Fiber

Synthetic concrete fiber is a manmade material that comes in both microfibers and macrofibers and can be made up of nylon, polyester, acrylic, and carbon. It can be added to concrete before or during the mixing process. 

What does it do? 

These fibers help reduce plastic shrinkage cracks during hardening caused by a loss of moisture on the surface of concrete, or when it is moved. The less plastic shrinkage, the smoother the surface. Adding these fibers can help make concrete less permeable, more abrasion resistant, and less prone to shattering. 

What kinds of projects is synthetic concrete fiber good for?

Because it makes concrete stronger and less prone to cracking, it's ideal for jobs involving patio slabs, sidewalks, and foundations. It can be utilized in sprayed, precast, and extruded concrete and provides increased shatter resistance. 

At Mathews Readymix, we are always looking to provide the best concrete solutions for our clients. If you are interested in learning which of your projects might benefit from synthetic fiber reinforcement, contact us today!