Advanced Concept Basalt Fiber Reinforcement for Concrete

Extensive research (Ukraine) has shown that high strength continuous fibers of basalt can be produced. These fibers are inexpensive and have exceptionally high strength, stiffness and corrosion resistance. Basalt is a naturally occurring volcanic mineral, consisting a variety concentration of oxides. The product envisioned is a low-cost, corrosion resistant replacement for steel bar in reinforced concrete. It is proposed to develop a higher strength non-corrosive basalt fiber base composite ultimate to steel. The innovation of this project is cost effective technology to manufacture continuous basalt fibers (0.0001 to 0.0002 inch in diameter) in amorphous state without crystalline phase which by Mechanical Performance/Price Ratios better than S-1, S-2 glass fibers. The polymer bonded continuous basalt fiber composite appear to have roughly twice the stiffness and strength of E-glass composites, and about one half that of high performance carbon fibers. It is expected that Phase I of project will determine the feasibility of using basalt fiber composites to reinforce structural concrete. This material will be evaluated to determine properties and to study its compatibility with typical road building concrete. Phase II project would involve building a pilot plant to produce and test composite bars made of Wisconsin basalt.