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The Shift from PP to PAN Fibers in High-Strength Concrete

Updated: Nov 14, 2025


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       •      Type: 4-minute read

       •      Audience: Construction professionals, engineers, architects, contractors 


Introduction: Why the Industry Is Moving Toward PAN Fibers

In the evolution of concrete reinforcement, the move from polypropylene (PP) to polyacrylonitrile fibers (PAN fibers) marks a major turning point. As demands for strength, durability, and environmental resistance grow in infrastructure and high-performance concrete applications, PAN fibers are rapidly becoming the preferred reinforcement material due to their superior mechanical and chemical characteristics.


Close-up view of polyacrylonitrile (PAN) fibers used in fiber-reinforced concrete, offering higher tensile strength, smaller diameter, and excellent resistance to alkaline, acidic, and salty environments.

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Performance Comparison: PAN Fiber vs. PP Fiber


One of the most compelling reasons for the industry-wide shift is the measurable performance difference between PP and PAN fibers. PAN fibers exhibit:

  • Higher tensile strength: 500–900 MPa (vs. ~300 MPa for PP)

  • Smaller diameter: ~13 microns for PAN (vs. 20–48 microns for PP), allowing denser fiber distribution

  • Higher elastic modulus: 7–10 GPa, improving energy absorption

  • Superior chemical resistance: Excellent durability in alkaline, acidic, and salty environments

  • Thermal stability: PAN fibers resist temperatures up to 220°C, compared to 165°C for PP

These properties result in better crack control, higher load-bearing capacity, and improved structural resilience across demanding construction conditions.


Industrial-scale production of PAN fibers used in high-performance concrete for superior tensile strength, chemical resistance, and thermal stability compared to traditional PP fibers.

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Applications Benefiting from the PAN Fiber Upgrade


As construction projects grow more complex, high-strength concrete with polyacrylonitrile fiber reinforcement is increasingly being specified. PAN fibers are ideal for:

  • Industrial flooring and loading docks

  • Bridge decks and heavy-traffic infrastructure

  • Precast concrete panels

  • Shotcrete for tunnels and underground works

  • Composite decks in high-rise buildings

These environments require superior crack resistance, impact durability, and thermal stability—qualities PAN fibers deliver consistently.


Standard Compliance and Global Adoption


PIONEER® PAN fibers meet ASTM C1116 and EN 14889-2 international standards for synthetic fiber reinforcement. Backed by 22 years of fiber technology expertise, PIONEER® offers manufacturer-direct supply, tailored technical guidance, and OEM/ODM flexibility to global clients adopting PAN as the new standard in high-strength concrete.


Concrete being poured into formwork with PAN fiber reinforcement, designed to enhance crack control, tensile strength, and durability in high-performance construction applications.

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Conclusion: The Future of Reinforced Concrete Is PAN Fiber


As construction standards evolve, the shift from PP to PAN fibers is not just a trend—it’s a long-term upgrade to the way concrete is reinforced. With better strength, toughness, and resistance to environmental stress, PAN fibers are paving the way for stronger, safer, and more durable infrastructure around the world.



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

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Contact us today to request samples, technical data, or a custom solution for your project.

WhatsApp: +1 (929) 569-9989 | +86 151-6240-5106

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