Title: Practical Applications for Natural Cellulose Fiber Including Slab-on-Ground

Author(s): J. Purdy, J. D. Speakman, and J. H. Morton

Publication: Symposium Paper

Volume: 268

Issue:

Appears on pages(s): 103-122

Keywords: cellulose; fiber; reinforcement.

DOI: 10.14359/51663712

Date: 3/1/2010

Abstract:
Modern research has led to the extensive use of cellulose fiber in building materials. This research has led to specialized cellulose products engineered for such harsh environments as concrete. Cellulose fibers, since they come from a renewable resource, provide an ecologically friendly alternative to petroleum-based synthetic fibers. Cellulose fibers are also proven to enhance concrete performance attributes while eliminating placement and finishing complications often associated with fiber reinforced concrete such as: fiber balling, surface hairs, and poor fiber dispersion. This paper reviews several commercial jobs using cellulose fiber reinforced concrete including such diverse applications as highway overlays, airport hangars, cast in place high rise components, shotcreted architectural features, commercial and residential slab on grade projects, and pervious pavement. These project examples demonstrate some of the clear performance and practical advantages provided by the use of engineered cellulose fibers for concrete reinforcement.