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What Is Fibre-Reinforced Concrete?

Fibre-reinforced concrete is concrete containing fibrous material which can consist of mixtures of cement, mortar, discontinuous discrete that are uniformly distributed and randomly oriented. This helps to reinforce its structure. However, it should be noted that continuous fibreglass mesh for concrete, woven fabrics and long wires or rods are not considered to be discrete fibres.

The amount of fibres added to a concrete mix is measured as a percentage of the total volume of the composite (concrete and fibres). Aspect ratio is then calculated by dividing fibre length by its diameter. Al Manaratain fibre-reinforced concrete is mixed specifically for each job, to suit the needs and requirements of each of our clients’ projects. Our ready-mix division has two fully computerized concrete batching plants with enough transit mixers and concrete pumps in different lengths to meet our customers’ requirements. The production is properly monitored and controlled to comply with the international standards and ministry specifications in respect of quality and quantity. Our internal quality control department follows strict quality assurance and quality control systems.

What Is The Effect of Fibre-Reinforced Concrete?

Fibre-reinforced concrete is usually used to control plastic shrinkage cracking and drying shrinkage cracking. It also lowers the permeability of concrete and ultimately reduces bleeding of water. Some types of fibres produce greater impact, abrasion and shatter resistance in concrete. One of our popular FAQs are what are the advantages of fibre reinforced concrete – that is why we will be answering this frequently asked questions for you today.

What Are The Advantages Of Fibre-Reinforced Concrete?

  • Saves money – Fibre-reinforced concrete allows for wider joint spacing, this means that the joint forming cost is reduced and there is less need for joint maintenance for the years to come. It also reduces slab thickness, which means less concrete will be needed to create slabs, whilst still maintaining strength and durability. This in turn also means that the placement of the slabs are a lot quicker and therefore a lot cheaper.
  • Saves time – As the concrete is ready-mixed and ready to go, this saves time-on-site, rather than having to mix the concrete by hand. The reinforced concrete is also a lot lighter than hefty traditional concrete, therefore is easier and quicker to lay.
  • The risk of cracking is significantly reduced – In non-reinforced concrete, the concrete beams can only withstand so much stress from bending before they break apart. By adding fibres to these beams, the resistance is significantly strengthened, allowing them to withstand much greater loads before the first crack appears.
  • Greater durability and strength – Fibre-reinforced concrete is an extremely effective product for heavy-duty usage, where heavy loads are expected. From warehouses and factories to aircraft hangars and runways, the strength of this concrete means it can withstand far more than the average concrete mix.
  • Reduced maintenance costs – Fewer cracks and its strong durable structure means that it will require less maintenance than traditional concrete, in the long run this will greatly reduce maintenance costs. This also means that it will have a longer useful lifespan.