High-Performance Fibers for UHPC: Types, Functions & Dosage Guide

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Ultra-High-Performance Concrete (UHPC) delivers exceptional compressive strength, density, and long-term durability. These advanced properties are achieved not only through low water-binder ratios and optimized particle packing but also through a critical component—high-performance fibers.

In modern UHPC formulations, fibers are essential for achieving ductility, post-crack energy absorption, and long-term crack resistance. This article provides a technical comparison of fiber types, dosage guidelines, hybrid systems, and real applications using PIONEER® HPM® High-Performance Fibers.

What Makes UHPC Different from Conventional Concrete

UHPC differs fundamentally from standard concrete in terms of microstructure, mechanical properties, and failure behavior.

Strength, Density & Durability

UHPC typically reaches compressive strengths of 120–200 MPa, far beyond normal concrete. Its dense microstructure—achieved through silica fume, ultra-fine powders, and optimized gradation—delivers:

• High tensile strength

• Low porosity & permeability

• Superior freeze–thaw resistance

• Long-term durability in aggressive environments

Why UHPC Requires Dispersed Micro-Reinforcement

Even with exceptional matrix strength, UHPC is brittle without fibers. High-performance fibers provide:

• Crack bridging at micro- and nano-scales

• Ductility and flexural toughness

• Controlled crack width (<0.1 mm)

• Impact and fatigue resistance

• Post-crack load-bearing capacity

This is why UHPC always incorporates a fiber system—typically PVA, PAN, basalt, carbon, or steel fibers.

Types of High-Performance Fibers for UHPC

PIONEER® HPM® fibers are engineered for high-strength cementitious composites. Each fiber contributes unique mechanical and durability benefits.

PVA Fibers for UHPC (HPM® PVA)

PVA fibers offer exceptional bonding due to their hydrophilic surface.

Key features:

• High tensile strength (800–1600 MPa)

• Excellent crack control

• Strong chemical resistance

• Ideal for architectural UHPC, panels, overlays, repair mortars

PAN Fibers for UHPC (HPM® PAN)

PAN (polyacrylonitrile) fibers improve both tensile and flexural performance.

Benefits include:

• High modulus and chemical stability

• Enhanced early-age cracking resistance

• Suitable for industrial UHPC, tunnel linings, and marine structures

Basalt Fibers for UHPC (HPM® Basalt)

Basalt fibers provide natural high-temperature and corrosion resistance.

Advantages:

• High thermal stability

• Good toughness improvement

• Suitable for bridge decks, precast segments, and infrastructure

Carbon Fibers for UHPC (HPM® Carbon)

Carbon fibers deliver the highest strength and stiffness among synthetic fibers.

Key benefits:

• Ultra-high tensile strength

• Superior fatigue and impact resistance

• Lightweight reinforcement

• Used in high-performance structures, precast UHPC components

Fiber Dosage Recommendations for UHPC Mix Design

Typical UHPC formulations use 1–3% fiber volume fraction, depending on the mechanical requirements.

Fiber Type	Recommended Dosage (kg/m³)
PVA	10–20 kg/m³
PAN	6–12 kg/m³
Basalt	10–25 kg/m³
Carbon	4–10 kg/m³

Notes:

• Higher dosages increase toughness but may affect workability.

• UHPC with higher aspect-ratio fibers may require superplasticizer adjustment.

When to Use Hybrid Fiber Systems

Hybrid reinforcement combines micro and macro functions:

• Microfiber (PVA/PAN): controls early-age microcracks

• Basalt or Carbon fibers: increase flexural strength and post-crack toughness

Hybrid systems are recommended for:

• UHPC overlays

• Structural retrofitting

• Prefab UHPC panels

• High-impact industrial flooring

Real UHPC Applications Using HP Fibers

High-performance fibers are widely used in UHPC projects:

• Bridge deck panels strengthened with carbon fibers

• UHPC façade cladding using PVA fibers for enhanced ductility

• Tunnel segments reinforced with PAN/basalt fibers to resist thermal and chemical attack

• Marine structures requiring anti-corrosion UHPC mixes

PIONEER® HPM® High-Performance Fibers are used in major infrastructure, including highways, marine structures, and precast UHPC components around the world.

Explore PIONEER’s range of concrete reinforcement fibers and how they improve concrete properties. Visit our website: www.pioneerfibre.com

Micro fiber >> Learn More

Macro fiber >> Learn More

Steel fiber >> Learn More

Asphalt fiber >> Learn More

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