Add strength to concrete without the need for steel mesh with Topforce from Ablemix.

Ablemix fibre reinforced readymix concretes save time, cost and labour. Reinforced with either macro steel fibres or plastic fibres it’s designed to eliminate the requirement need for traditional steel mesh.

Fibres are added at batching plants to give the added strength and durability. As a result, fibre reinforced concrete is suitable for most concrete flooring applications.

Types of fibre reinforced concrete

The fibres used in our fibre reinforced concretes are manufactured from high-strength, high modulus synthetic plastic or steel. Once added, they replace the need for welded mesh and/or reinforcement bars.

Macro steel fibres

Macro steel fibres improve the performance of readymix concrete. By adding them to concrete, you can increase the durability, flexural strength and impact resistance of the mix.

Plastic fibres

By reinforcing concrete with synthetic polypropylene, you can reduce shrinkage and crack potential, increase resistance to freeze thaw damage, and reduce plastic settlement and bleeding.

Applications for fibre reinforced concrete

• Slabs and industrial floors
• Suspended floors and slabs
• Hard standings
• Jointless surfaces/slabs
• Lightweight construction
• Heavily trafficked surfaces
• Ground bearing slabs
• Strip footings and foundations
• Impermeable concrete slabs

Benefits of plastic or steel fibre reinforced concrete

• Reduced overall programme costs
• Reduced time on site in manual handling and placement
• No need for crack control fabric reinforcement
• Eliminates corrosion issues
• Provides a reduced structural weight
• Improved resistance to surface abrasion

Frequently asked questions

What is fibre reinforced concrete used for?

Fibre reinforced concrete is used for roads, bridges, tunnels, airport pavements, industrial floors, and earthquake-resistant structures and many other applications. Essentially, it’s used where high performance and longevity are essential. This is because the fibres provide resistance against cracking, impact, shrinkage and fatigue.

Do you need rebar with fibre reinforced concrete?

Fibre reinforced concrete can replace or supplement traditional rebar reinforcement. Although the fibres can increase tensile strength and control cracking, they may not entirely eliminate the need for rebar. This is especially true for heavy-load bearing structures. When combined, they offer added reinforcement and durability to concrete structures.

Does fibre reinforced concrete crack?

Under certain conditions, fibre reinforced concrete can still crack. However, the use of fibres helps to control and mitigate cracking compared to standard and general mixes. How it works is that the fibres act as micro-reinforcement, reducing the width of cracks and strengthening the concrete as a result.