Fibre reinforced foundations instead of steel?

[phatboy]

Our structural engineer is specifying a top and bottom layer of A252 steel mesh in the footings for our extension (Single storey, on sand).

A local concrete supplier can specify an equivalent fibre mix using Adfil fibre reinforcement, which is claimed to remove the need for steel in most circumstances. They have a proper form to complete, detailing the mesh size, positions, and concrete strength required, to work from. The engineer doesn't want to allow this in their design, as 'they haven't done it before'.

Is this reasonable? Of course the manufacturer says their product is a replacement for mesh, but I'd hope that's guaranteed. I'd prefer to use a fibre mix as it will save money, time, and reduce the dangers on site.

Thanks

 

[tony1851]

Most fibres are added to reduce shrinkage, but may not necessarily be suitable for applications where the concrete can come under tension or shear.
Most conventional foundations don't come under tension, unless there is considerable variability in the ground; maybe that's why the SE has suggested steel mesh? Personally, I'd be inclined to stick with that.

 

[^woody^]

Fibre is an aid to better crap, not foundations.

Is there a BBA Certificate for this miracle product?

 

[phatboy]

Fibre is an aid to better crap, not foundations.

I don't fully understand this?

Is there a BBA Certificate for this miracle product?

I'm not sure, their website lists a number of ISO, EN & EC compliances, but they are a bit lost on me.
https://www.adfil.com/products/synthetic-macro-fibres/durus-s500/

 

[phatboy]

Most fibres are added to reduce shrinkage, but may not necessarily be suitable for applications where the concrete can come under tension or shear.
Most conventional foundations don't come under tension, unless there is considerable variability in the ground; maybe that's why the SE has suggested steel mesh? Personally, I'd be inclined to stick with that.

Thanks Tony, a qualified second opinion is always appreciated. Just the reason given by the SE is one that really gets me - we've never done it before isn't a reason to not even investigate a solution!

 

[^woody^]

I don't fully understand this?



I'm not sure, their website lists a number of ISO, EN & EC compliances, but they are a bit lost on me.
https://www.adfil.com/products/synthetic-macro-fibres/durus-s500/

LOL. Wasted

Anyway, it's BBA or GTFO. I hope you understand that

 

[phatboy]

LOL. Wasted

View attachment 250234

God damnit, I got it a few minutes after replying!

Anyway, it's BBA or GTFO. I hope you understand that

I shall call them and ask if it has BBA rating.

Thanks