BASF engineers synthetic hybrid fiber as steel alternative

MasterFiber MAC 360 FF, a new synthetic hybrid fiber developed to meet the performance targets of contractors, concrete producers and engineers, strengthens plastic concrete to minimize shrinkage and settlement cracking, while augmenting hardened slabs and structures’ post-crack flexural toughness.



BASF developed MasterFiber MAC 360 FF as an alternative to concrete-grade rope or tape-type synthetic macrofibers, especially targeting the product to welded-wire reinforcement and small diameter steel bar replacement.
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“This hybrid fiber offers versatility, ease of use, and long-term value,” says BASF Admixture Systems Product Manager Dan Vojtko. “MasterFiber MAC 360 FF is a proven system that boosts concrete durability and heightens overall performance.”

Engineers designed the hybrid fiber to serve as a noncorrosive, three-dimensional, secondary reinforcement alternative to conventional welded-wire reinforcement, small diameter bars and steel fibers, he adds. MasterFiber MAC 360 FF is manufactured from a proprietary blend of polypropylene resins for use in producing fiber-reinforced concrete compliant with ASTM C1116/C1116M Standard Specification for Fiber-Reinforced Concrete.

Along with providing effective crack and plastic shrinkage control and reduced settlement cracking, the new fiber effectively increases the post-crack residual strength of concrete, along with its impact and shatter resistance. MasterFiber MAC 360 FF also offers exceptional finishability, BASF affirms, noting that the hybrid fiber suits hand-troweled concrete; industrial, warehouse, commercial and residential slabs on grade; pavements, white-topping and overlays; composite metal decks; and, architectural panels. — BASF Construction Chemicals/Admixture Systems Business, 800/628-9990; www.master-builders-solutions.basf.us