Effect of the addition of polypropylene fiber on concrete properties

Abstract

The random distribution of polypropylene fibers in concrete mixtures leads to an increase in abrasion and freeze-thaw resistance, a decrease in volume expansions formed as a result of sulfate attack and alkali silica reaction (ASR). Since the addition of polypropylene fiber in appropriate ratios to concrete mixtures improves the durability properties of the elements, the total cost decreases. The energy absorption capacity of concrete mixtures increases and their plastic shrinkage cracks significantly decrease by polypropylene fiber utilization. This study presents a comprehensive literature review related to history, advantages and disadvantages, workability, mechanical properties, durability performance and dimensional stability of polypropylene fiber-bearing concrete mixtures. For this aim, compressive, tensile and flexural strengths, modulus of elasticity, flexural crack and post-cracking behavior, the resistance of freeze-thaw, sulfate, high-temperature and abrasion as well as alkali-silica reactivity, drying shrinkage-based length change and impact strength of fibrous concrete mixture are thoroughly discussed.

Keywords:

• Fibrous concrete
• polypropylene fiber
• mechanical properties
• durability performance
• dimensional stability

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).