Mitsubishi Warehouse | 24 Years of Warehouse Floor Crack Control
In 1998, Mitsubishi Chemical Logistics Corp. constructed two side-by-side warehouses for their distribution centre in southern Japan. One warehouse was constructed using traditional steel mesh reinforced concrete, while the second utilised BarChip synthetic fibre reinforced concrete.
Both warehouses were the same size, shape and layout, with the same concrete mix, constructed at the same time under the same environmental conditions and used for the same purpose throughout their service life. The only difference between the two floors was the reinforcement system.
More than 24 years later, Mitsubishi invited BarChip to inspect the floors and compare their long term concrete floor crack control performance.
Project Facts
Location: Southern Japan
Application: Warehouse Flooring
Construction Date: 1998
Comparison: Steel Mesh Reinforced Concrete vs BarChip Synthetic Fibre Reinforced Concrete
Facility Type: Distribution Centre Warehouses
Current Service Life: 24+ Years
Long Term Crack Control Performance
The Mitsubishi warehouses provide a unique long-term comparison between two concrete reinforcement systems operating under virtually identical conditions.
After more than 24 years of service, the BarChip reinforced warehouse floor remains in excellent condition with no visible cracking. The floor continues to perform as intended and has required no unplanned maintenance during its service life.
The adjacent steel mesh reinforced floor has not performed as well. While the floor remains serviceable, cracking has developed in several locations throughout the warehouse, requiring ongoing monitoring and maintenance.
Because both warehouses were constructed at the same time, under the same conditions and for the same purpose. The comparison provides a clear demonstration of the long term crack control benefits of macro synthetic fibre reinforcement.
Durable Industrial Flooring Performance
Mitsubishi were eager to demonstrate the performance of the BarChip reinforced floor after more than two decades of service. The comparison highlights not only the effectiveness of macro synthetic fibre reinforcement, but also the high standards of construction, operation and maintenance applied throughout the facility’s life.
The continued serviceability of both floors is a testament to Mitsubishi’s commitment to quality construction and asset management. However, the BarChip reinforced floor has delivered a significant advantage through the absence of visible cracking and the elimination of unplanned maintenance requirements associated with crack repair.
More than 24 years after construction, the warehouse remains a powerful example of how macro synthetic fibre reinforced concrete can enhance the long-term durability and serviceability of industrial flooring applications.