Title: Synthetic Macrofiber: Material Key to Enhancing Infrastructure Sustainability

Author(s): Julie K. Buffenbarger, Michael A. Mahoney, and Hessam AzariJaFari

Publication: Symposium Paper

Volume: 361

Issue:

Appears on pages(s): 92-108

Keywords: carbon footprint, durability, fiber-reinforced composite, life cycle assessment

DOI: 10.14359/51740609

Date: 3/1/2024

Abstract:
Worldwide, the need for additional and improved infrastructure is critical. The deterioration of infrastructure has become an increasing challenge and burden on the world's economy, environment, and society. Historically, most structures worldwide have been built without durability and service-life consideration, and their premature failure reflects an acute crisis within the construction industry and the environment. Including synthetic polypropylene macrofiber in concrete structures ensures the maximizing of durability and service life extension and offers potential reductions in the binder content and reinforcing steel materials that contribute to resource depletion, environmental impacts, and increased economic burden. These material reductions and service life improvements present housing and infrastructure construction opportunities that protect the environment and ensure public safety, health, security, serviceability, and life cycle cost-effectiveness.