An assessment of the commercial prospects for fibre- and polymer-modified concretes

Abstract

Synopsis The principal effects of fibres of various types and of polymers upon the properties of Portland cement pastes, mortars and concretes are discussed briefly, and possible applications are suggested in which the special properties of the modified cement-based materials may be exploited commercially. It is concluded that structural reinforced and prestressed concretes are unlikely to be replaced by fibre or polymer concretes. It is more likely that the viable applications will exploit properties, in either the fresh or the hardened states, that are peculiar to the particular fibres or polymers incorporated in the matrix. It is also suggested that sufficient research has already been undertaken to provide data on the effects of fibres and polymers upon concrete properties and that the major effort should now be directed to the development of saleable products rather than the acquisition of additional basic information.