DIY Fibers

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Product Information

Description
DIY Fibers are 100% virgin polypropylene synthetic fibers specifically designed and manufactured to be used as secondary reinforcement in slump concrete and cement-based building products. DIY Fibers disperse uniformly throughout the concrete mix to reduce plastic shrinkage cracking by providing multi-dimensional reinforcement.

Primary Application
  • Decorative concrete application
  • Patios
  • Sidewalks
Benefits
  • Easy-to-use – simply add to any concrete mix
  • Eliminates the need for welded wire mesh secondary reinforcement
  • Supplied in pre-measured ready-to-use bags
  • Rust proof and alkali resistant
  • Provides three-dimensional reinforcement – always in the proper location
  • Safer to use than traditional wire mesh
  • Less expensive than welded wire mesh
Technical Data
Packaging: DIY Fiber is packaged in plastic bags. Each case contains 12 bags.

Storage: DYI Fibers must be stored in a dry area.

Properties:
  • Fiber design: Individual filament
  • Material: 100% virgin polypropylene
  • Chemical resistance: Excellent
  • Saline resistance: Excellent
  • Alkaline resistance: Low
  • Electrical conductivity: Low
  • Thermal conductivity: Low
  • Absorption: Nil
  • Color: Colorless
  • Fiber length: 19 mm (3/4’’)
  • Melting point: 320°F - 340°F (160°C - 170°C)
  • Ignition point: 1100°F (590°C)
Usage
Directions: DIY Fiber should be added during the batching sequence. When adding the DIY Fiber, the mixer should be reversed to the point of discharge before adding the fiber and then allowed to mix for a minimum of five to seven minutes to ensure thorough dispersion. The addition of DIY Fiber may appear to reduce the specified slump. Do not add more water to the concrete. This apparent change in the slump is due to the thorough support network of fibers, and should not be mistaken for a loss of workability.

Dosage: Standard dosage rate for Portland cement ready-mix is 20g for 12 in³ (200 cm³).

Placing and Finishing: The normal requirements for placing and finishing Portland cement concrete shall apply. Finish the concrete containing DIY Fiber in accordance with ACI practices. Ensure that the bleed water is gone and that the concrete is set enough to receive trowels. If a hand trowel finish is required, the floating and trowelling operations should be performed closer to the final set than normal. Use only steel/magnesium tools. Avoid wood trowels and floats which are abrasive to the surface and may reveal more fibers. For exterior slabs requiring a broom textured finish, use a stiff bristled broom. If broomed in one direction, the fibers at the surface will line up with the texture ridges and be concealed. Surface fibers will wear off under light traffic or break down with exposure to sunlight.

Curing: All requirements for curing normal Portland cement concrete shall apply.

Cleaning: All equipment and tools should be cleaned with water immediately after use.

Note: Cured concrete must be mechanically removed.

Availability
Interstar products are readily available throughout Canada, United States and Mexico. Contact us to place an order or to find a distributor in your area.

Technical Services
Interstar’s technical staff and chemists are always available to offer their expert advice. Should you need technical assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Warranty
The limit of liability of this company shall be the purchase price paid by the user or buyer for the quantity of the Interstar product involved. See Interstar’s Warranty for complete details.