Composite Fibers in Concrete: Properties, Challenges, and Future Directions

Composite fibers are an essential component of modern concrete structures, providing enhanced mechanical properties and durability. There are different types of fibers commonly used in concrete such as steel, glass, carbon, polypropylene fibers, etc. Composite fibers include a combination of two or more of these fibers. Composite fibers are discussed in detail, along with their properties and benefits. This paper also highlights the effects of composite fibers on the various properties of concrete, such as compressive strength, tensile strength, toughness, and durability. Furthermore, this paper discusses some of the challenges and limitations associated with the use of composite fibers in concrete, including issues related to fiber dispersion, fiber–matrix interactions, and cost-effectiveness. Finally, this paper concludes with a discussion of the future directions of research on composite fibers in concrete, focusing on potential advancements in fiber technology, improved manufacturing techniques, and the development of new fiber–matrix systems. Overall, this paper provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of the art in composite fibers in concrete and serves as a valuable resource for researchers and practitioners in the field.