Fiber Selection · 2 minutes
What is fiber reinforcement? Micro, macro and steel
Fiber reinforcement covers different product categories. Early-age crack control and post-crack load transfer require different evidence and design decisions.
Imported archive date:
Editorial update:
Different fibers have different roles
- Macromic synthetic microfibers are primarily considered for early-age plastic shrinkage control.
- Macrotwist synthetic macrofibers may contribute to post-crack behavior when supported by suitable tests and design.
- Steel fibers, including the Dramix family, are a separate material category.
- Welded wire mesh and reinforcing bars are conventional steel reinforcement, not dispersed fibers.
Design limits
Fibers do not remove every crack mechanism or automatically increase concrete compressive strength. Reinforcement substitution must be checked for loads, section, support and crack-width limits, then approved by the responsible engineer. Synthetic fibers do not rust, but other steel reinforcement still needs protection. Mixing, placement, curing and joint design remain necessary. Claims about environmental benefit, service life, cost or speed require identifiable product or project evidence.
References and archive provenance
These manufacturer references explain general category distinctions. Their dosages, test results and certifications must not be transferred to Macrotwist, Macromic or Macrosteel. The original archive link is retained for provenance, not as validation of its old claims.