BarChip MQ58: A 3-for-1 Fibre for Concrete Flooring

When it comes to fibre reinforced concrete flooring, BarChip MQ58 sets itself apart by delivering a unique triple benefit package. This cutting-edge macro synthetic fibre addresses key performance areas that are critical to the success of concrete flooring applications: outstanding post-crack residual strength, plastic shrinkage crack control, and a fibre free surface finish. No other fibre on the market can boast the same 3-in-1 advantage, making BarChip MQ58 a standout choice for flooring designers and contractors in both jointed and jointless concrete floors.

Post-Crack Residual Strength in Fibre Concrete 

In the realm of concrete reinforcement, one of the key performance indicators is how well the concrete can sustain loads after cracking. BarChip MQ58 excels by delivering high post-crack residual strength, ensuring that even after the concrete cracks, it retains much of its load bearing capacity. This is especially crucial in industrial flooring and pavement applications, where crack management and structural integrity are vital.

The strength that BarChip MQ58 imparts after cracking offers a significant advantage over traditional reinforcement methods. Its ability to control the width of cracks and maintain concrete’s structural performance can reduce the need for extensive repairs or replacement, saving time, costs and resources over the life of the project.

Shrinkage Crack Control with Fibre Reinforcement

A key feature unique to BarChip MQ58 is its ability to control plastic shrinkage cracking. Plastic shrinkage cracks occur at a very early age as the concrete dries and contracts, and these are often the most problematic for surface appearance and long term durability. To date, only micro synthetic fibres have been shown to have a positive impact on plastic shrinkage cracking. However, testing shows that just 2kg/m3 of BarChip MQ58 has a better effect on shrinkage cracking than 1 kg/m3 of micro fibre. Indeed, at regular dose rates, testing showed that BarChip MQ58 can eliminate shrinkage cracking altogether.

This aspect of plastic shrinkage crack control is a game changer, particularly in large-scale applications like industrial flooring, with one fibre delivering the benefits of two, simplifying mix designs and reducing cost. By reducing the incidence of unsightly and potentially harmful shrinkage cracks, BarChip MQ58 ensures a more durable and aesthetically pleasing result. It’s a unique benefit among macro synthetic fibres that further solidifies BarChip’s leadership in fibre reinforcement technology. Furthermore, the combination of early age plastic shrinkage crack reduction and high residual strength makes it possible to design and construct jointless industrial floors using BarChip MQ58.

Fibre-Free Surface Finish – Concrete Flooring

One of the most common issues with fibre reinforced concrete is the appearance of fibres on the surface, which can affect both aesthetics and functionality. BarChip MQ58, however, offers a fibre-free surface finish, delivering a smooth, clean look that is free from fibre protrusions. This is particularly important in warehouse flooring applications, as any surface imperfections can impact forklift operations and are unsightly.

Unlike other fibres that may protrude from the surface and require treatment, BarChip MQ58 ensures that the fibres remain embedded within the concrete. This results in not only a superior surface finish but also reduces the need for extra finishing work, lowering labour costs and speeding up project timelines.

Concrete Flooring: The BarChip MQ58 Difference

The combination of excellent post-crack residual strength, plastic shrinkage crack control, and a fibre free surface finish is unmatched by other fibres on the market. This triple benefit makes BarChip MQ58 the ideal choice for any project requiring durable, high performance concrete flooring. Whether it’s distribution centres, warehouses, factories or external pavements, BarChip MQ58 ensures superior performance and a clean, polished look without the downsides typically associated with poor quality fibre reinforcement.

BarChip MQ58 is the go-to choice for engineers and contractors looking to optimise their concrete flooring works. With its 3-for-1 solution, you can achieve the ideal balance of strength, durability and aesthetics in every project.