Use of polyethylene terephthalate (PETWF) fibers to control shrinkage in concrete, a review

Abstract

The PET bottle industry is of great social importance, producing millions of tons/year, generating employment and income. However, it recycles little, resulting in environmental problems. This review article, based on high-impact articles in civil and environmental engineering, with emphasis on PET fiber concrete (PEC), aims to evaluate the performance, best uses, best fibers, and limitations. The data collected in these articles, such as: Fiber characteristics; mechanical properties; shrinkage and cracking are presented in tabular form. According to the articles studied, in addition to reducing pollution, the addition of fibers improves concrete properties, tensile strength up to 35% and shrinkage up to 56%, although it causes a decrease in workability and compressive strength. Mixtures containing fibers between 0.5% and 1% presented better performance. The studies proved that PETC can be used in paving, coatings, and structures in fire situations, as a technically and environmentally viable solution.