Ul Classifies Fibermesh As Wire Alternative

Propex Concrete Systems, a primary supplier of fibers for secondary concrete reinforcement, announces that its Fibermesh 650 synthetic macro-fibers have

Propex Concrete Systems, a primary supplier of fibers for secondary concrete reinforcement, announces that its Fibermesh 650 synthetic macro-fibers have received classification from Underwriters Laboratory (UL) as a replacement for, or an addition to, welded-wire fabric in steel deck construction.

To obtain the classification, Fibermesh 650 was subjected by UL to a full-scale fire test at 100 percent of the deck’s design capacity and received a 1-, 1.5-, 2-, 2.5- and 3-hour fire rating for D700, D800 and D900 Series Floor-Ceiling Designs [fibers added to concrete mix at a rate up to a maximum of 5.0 lb of fiber for each yard of concrete]. Additionally, Fibermesh 650 complies with ANSI/SDI Code Provisions for fibers to replace welded-wire fabric specified for temperature and shrinkage reinforcement in composite metal deck applications.

Fibermesh 650 is a specially engineered alloy polymer, macro-synthetic fiber used as an alternative to traditional steel for concrete secondary reinforcement. Featuring Propex’s patented e3 technology, the fibers are fabricated to an optimum gradation and highly oriented to allow greater surface area contact within the concrete for increased interfacial bonding and flexural toughness efficiency.

The engineered fibers help provide superior long-term durability, the manufacturer notes, including impact, abrasion and shatter resistance. In addition, Fibermesh 650 is designed to reduce the formation of early-age plastic cracking as well as drying shrinkage and temperature cracking that occurs over time. Accordingly, it suits a variety of applications, such as slab-on-ground, composite metal decks, and exterior flatwork including driveways, sidewalks, overlays, parking areas, roads and interstates. Û www.fibermesh.com