Comparative analysis on use of polymer fibres from recycled polyethylene terephthalate into reinforced concrete solutions

Abstract

Fibre–reinforced concrete cannot replace the ordinary reinforced concrete. However, there are areas of use in which fibre–reinforced concrete can be used alternatively or in addition to the ordinary reinforced concrete, offering several advantages, some of that being presented in this study. The basic idea is that reinforcements create a multi–directional “mesh” within the cementitious matrix that will make concrete stronger. In fact, adding the fibrous material to concrete will increase the strength. In this sense, the micro–fibres primarily work to prevent micro– or shrinkage cracking, which mostly occurs during the initial curing process of the concrete, or those critical first 28 days. By contrast, the macro–fibres provide load–bearing strength after the concrete cracks. But, in fact, the subject is more complex. The types and size of fibres, their distribution and orientation are a hugely complex topic. Fibres, of whatever nature, have been found to improve the properties of concrete. Fibre–reinforced concrete provides an alternative to conventional reinforcement, with the advantage of time and reduced costs of performing maintenance work. The complexity of various fibre use presents challenges for the construction sectors that may be beyond current levels of expertise. In this study, particularities of concrete reinforced with polymer fibres are presented. Also, a comparative study is presented, based on our previous works in area of the concrete reinforcing with recycled polyethylene terephthalate (PET).