Since 2002, we’ve built strong relationships with local governments – over 200 – and we’ve become advocates of sustainable design for community infrastructure.
So, we’re interested in sustainable products and systems from like-minded businesses, especially if they achieve outstanding results while offering effective alternatives to conventional practices.
Recently, we started thinking beyond our unique jointing system to the slab itself, and how it too could be designed to create a more sustainable smart path. TripStop has been used successfully with steel mesh in the past. But is that the best option available today?
Macro Synthetic Fibre (MSF) is a specific type of structural synthetic fibre. It is a non-corrosive reinforcing system specifically designed for low-strength concrete and optimised for use in residential paving works.
Since the early 1990s, the use of synthetic fibre for concrete reinforcement in the heavy construction industry has rapidly increased due to its low cost and high performance.
Its success as an alternative to steel mesh means the global concrete fibre market is projected to reach US$3.09 billion by 2021. That’s around 15 million cubic metres of fibre-reinforced concrete.
And some types of MSF are made from recycled materials. So why not consider using a synthetic fibre to build more sustainable footpaths and cycleways?
+ MACRO SYNTHETIC FIBRE While TripStop works reliably with steel mesh, we believe MSF is a better, stronger, more sustainable reinforcement solution.
When used together, TripStop and MSF deliver the ultimate sustainable path. TripStop’s unique articulated joint prevents slab displacement while the MSF makes the concrete more durable.
The structural MSF is mixed into the concrete before pouring, which results in even distribution of the fibres throughout the slab. This allows the MSF to contain cracking more effectively than steel mesh. But that’s just one of the advantages it offers.
MSF produces 70% less carbon emissions during manufacturing than the equivalent quantity of steel mesh. (5kg of MSF replaces 30kg of steel).
MSF outperforms steel mesh in concrete, so footpaths and cycleways don’t fail.
Steel mesh is bulky and heavy, whereas MSF is small and lightweight, making it easier and cheaper to transport, handle and store.
Unlike steel mesh, MSF doesn’t require any cutting to size or careful manual positioning – it’s mixed into the concrete before arriving on site, which makes installation faster.
When concrete that’s reinforced with steel mesh cracks, the steel corrodes, which results in concrete cancer – MSF is corrosion-free, so this risk is eliminated.
Reinforcing with MSF costs less than reinforcing with steel mesh.
If you’re looking for the ultimate sustainable option for your network of pathways, TripStop + MSF delivers economic, social and environmental benefits for your community.