• Fibril Tuf Provides Optimum Shrinkage-Crack Reinforcement System

    January 24, 2012

    FiberForce 300™ (Fibril Tuf™), a microsynthetic, fibrillated polypropylene fiber, is designed to optimize the mechanical bond between the concrete mortar matrix and the fiber networks.

    FiberForce 300 has been tested using the consensus test methods required in ICC ES Acceptance Criteria 32, the single consensus acceptance criteria in the WORLD for evaluating synthetic fibers. FiberForce 300 meets or exceeds all of the AC32 criteria for use as plastic shrinkage crack reinforcement and temperature-shrinkage crack reinforcement.

    FiberForce 300 is designed to distribute quickly throughout the concrete mix.

    Developed and manufactured by ABC Polymer Industries, LLC, USA, FiberForce 300 is a 19mm (3/4″) long, 1,500 denier fiber bundle which opens to a network-like system of fibrillation patterns. This intricate fibrillation pattern enhances the mechanical bonding properties of the fiber within the mortar portion of the concrete. Since the fibrillation is composed of both a main and a cross fibril structure there is a greater opportunity for the fibers to anchor in the concrete.

    FiberForce 300’s fibrillation pattern optimizes the mechanical bond between the mortar matrix and the fiber networks.

    The principal use of the FiberForce 300 is in slabs-on-ground as temperature-shrinkage reinforcement but there are a number of additional applications where the product is aptly suited from precast burial vaults to swimming pools. FiberForce 300 distributes concrete internal stresses over a greater volume of concrete so it is an excellent addition to applications exposed to frequent moisture or temperature changes.

    ICC ES has issued an Evaluation Report ESR-1699 distinguishing FiberForce 300 as both plastic shrinkage crack reinforcement and temperature-shrinkage crack reinforcement. This Evaluation Report is reviewed and updated by ABC Polymer to ensure a continuation of compliance.

    The typical dosage level for the FiberForce 300 is 0.9 kgs/m³ (1.5 pcy). There are a number of applications where the dosage rate may be altered. For example, in Ultra-thin whitetopping the dosage rate is 1.8 kgs/m³ (3.0 pcy).

    To ensure the precision of its production process and the quality of the products manufactured, ABC Polymer applied for International Code Counsel Quality Control Approval, which is Acceptance Criteria 10 for its synthetic fibers production process.

    AC10 sets forth performance parameters which are used to guide and monitor the performance level of each phase of the manufacturing process from the receiving of the resins through the end product shipped to customers worldwide through our global network of distributors. ABC Polymer’s production process and product handling procedures meet the AC10 requirements.

    For more details about Fibril Tuf or other concrete reinforcement fibers from ABC Polymer Industries, contact Bobby Zellers, PE/PLS, Director of Engineering Services (zzzman13@hotmail.com), Denzil Schmitz, SVP of Sales & Marketing (Denzil@abcfibers.com), or visit our website: www.abcpolymerindustries.com.