In this article, we will discuss the main types of fibre mesh used in construction, their composition, applications, and benefits in various structural and non-structural elements.
What Is Fibre Mesh in Construction?
Fibre mesh refers to fibres made from materials like steel, glass, polypropylene, carbon, or natural fibres that are mixed directly into concrete to enhance its properties. These fibres create a three-dimensional reinforcement network that helps control cracking caused by plastic shrinkage, impact loads, and thermal expansion.
Fibre mesh concrete is widely used in slabs, pavements, precast components, tunnels, industrial floors, and shotcrete applications. The selection of fibre type depends on the desired mechanical performance, exposure conditions, and economic feasibility of the project.
1. Steel Fibre Mesh
Steel fibre reinforced concrete (SFRC) is one of the oldest and most effective fibre types in structural concrete applications. Steel fibres are small, discrete metal filaments, typically round, crimped, hooked, or flat in shape, and are mixed uniformly within the concrete.
Composition and Properties
Steel fibres are manufactured from carbon steel, stainless steel, or galvanized steel. Their tensile strength ranges from 1000 to 2500 MPa, making them ideal for high-performance structural concrete.
Applications
- Industrial floors and pavements
- Precast concrete elements
- Tunnel linings and shotcrete
- Bridge decks and airport runways
- Heavy-duty slabs and pavements
Advantages
- Enhances flexural and tensile strength
- Controls crack propagation
- Improves impact and fatigue resistance
- Reduces rebar requirement in certain applications
2. Glass Fibre Mesh
Glass fibre mesh is composed of alkali-resistant (AR) glass fibres, which are woven or chopped to form a reinforcing material suitable for concrete and plastering works. This type is most common in architectural finishes and surface reinforcement.
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| Glass Fibre Mesh |
Composition and Properties
AR glass fibres contain zirconia (ZrO₂), which provides resistance to the alkaline environment of concrete. These fibres exhibit high tensile strength, low elongation, and are non-corrosive.
Applications
- Plaster and wall rendering
- EIFS (Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems)
- Cement boards and panels
- Repair mortars and overlays
- Thin concrete elements
Advantages
- Prevents surface cracking and delamination
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- Provides dimensional stability
- Resistant to corrosion and moisture
3. Polypropylene Fibre Mesh
Polypropylene fibres are synthetic fibres made from thermoplastic polymer materials. They are chemically inert, hydrophobic, and non-corrosive, making them ideal for a wide range of construction applications.
Composition and Properties
Polypropylene fibre mesh is available in two forms:
- Microfibres (6–20 mm) – control plastic shrinkage cracks
- Macrofibres (30–60 mm) – improve post-crack toughness and durability
These fibres have a tensile strength of around 400–600 MPa and a specific gravity of 0.91, which allows uniform dispersion in the concrete mix.
Applications
- Slabs-on-grade and overlays
- Shotcrete
- Precast products
- Screeds and flooring
- Pavements and driveways
Advantages
- Controls shrinkage and thermal cracks
- Improves impact and abrasion resistance
- Provides secondary reinforcement
- Enhances concrete durability in aggressive environments
4. Polyester Fibre Mesh
Polyester fibres are synthetic reinforcement materials produced from polyethylene terephthalate (PET). These fibres exhibit excellent bonding with cement paste and are known for their stiffness and dimensional stability.
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| Polyester Fibre Mesh |
Composition and Properties
Polyester fibres possess high tensile strength (around 650–900 MPa), excellent acid and alkali resistance, and low water absorption. They maintain performance under a wide temperature range.
Applications
- Roof tiles and decorative panels
- Shotcrete and repair mortar
- Road and pavement overlays
- Lightweight precast concrete
Advantages
- Provides crack control and ductility
- Enhances surface smoothness
- Non-corrosive and UV resistant
- Cost-effective compared to steel fibres
5. Carbon Fibre Mesh
Carbon fibre mesh is a high-performance reinforcement material known for its exceptional tensile strength, lightweight nature, and chemical resistance. It is primarily used in structural strengthening and high-end construction projects. |
| Carbon Fibre Mesh |
Composition and Properties
Carbon fibres are made from polyacrylonitrile (PAN) or pitch-based precursors, offering a tensile strength of over 3000 MPa and elastic modulus exceeding 200 GPa.
Applications
- Structural retrofitting and strengthening
- Bridge rehabilitation
- High-rise buildings and marine structures
- Precast and prestressed components
Advantages
- Offers superior strength-to-weight ratio
- Resists chemical and environmental degradation
- Enhances structural stiffness and durability
- Reduces maintenance costs
6. Basalt Fibre Mesh
Basalt fibre mesh is made from volcanic rock basalt, melted and extruded into continuous fibres. It is gaining popularity as an eco-friendly alternative to steel and glass fibres.
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| Basalt Fibre Mesh |
Composition and Properties
Basalt fibres have high tensile strength (2000–3000 MPa), excellent chemical resistance, and thermal stability up to 800°C. They are non-toxic, non-corrosive, and environmentally sustainable.
Applications
- Reinforced plastering and facades
- Shotcrete in tunnels
- Concrete overlays and bridge decks
- Masonry wall reinforcement
Advantages
- Environmentally friendly and non-corrosive
- Excellent alkali and chemical resistance
- Superior temperature stability
- Increases longevity of concrete structures
7. Natural Fibre Mesh
Natural fibres, such as coir, jute, sisal, and bamboo, are biodegradable and renewable reinforcement materials. They are commonly used in low-cost, sustainable construction projects.
Composition and Properties
These fibres are organic polymers primarily composed of cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin. Although their mechanical strength is lower than synthetic fibres, they offer environmental benefits and adequate crack control.
Applications
- Rural housing and sustainable structures
- Non-structural wall panels
- Mud and lime plaster reinforcement
- Temporary pavements and slope stabilization
Advantages
- Low-cost and eco-friendly
- Reduces plastic shrinkage cracks
- Improves tensile toughness
- Biodegradable and locally available
Choosing the Right Fibre Mesh for Construction
Selecting the ideal fibre mesh depends on the project type, exposure conditions, structural requirements, and budget.
- For heavy-duty applications, steel or carbon fibres are preferred.
- For decorative and surface finishes, glass or polypropylene fibres perform well.
- For eco-friendly and economical projects, natural and basalt fibres offer sustainable choices.
A proper understanding of mix design, fibre dosage, and distribution techniques ensures that fibre mesh concrete achieves the desired durability, crack control, and performance.
Fibre mesh reinforcement represents a significant leap in concrete durability and sustainability. By distributing fibres throughout the mix, engineers can minimize cracks, deformation, and structural fatigue, ensuring long-term stability and reduced maintenance costs. Whether it’s a high-rise building, industrial floor, or eco-friendly structure, choosing the right type of fibre mesh can dramatically enhance performance and longevity.
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