Helix as rebar/mesh replacement

eyremountllc | Posted in Green Products and Materials on August 27, 2010 11:37am

I am considering trying out adding Helix (steel fiber) into concrete and do away with rebars.

Any experience with this positive or negative in slab applications and ICF wall applications?

Thanks in advance.

Answer

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Riversong | Aug 28, 2010 06:24pm | #1
If considering for ICF application, I would consult with the ICF manufacturer to make sure it will meet their structural requirements.

For a slab, I would check with an engineer, but would still use short polyester fiber for plastic shrinkage crack control.

Helix sounds as if it would add tensile strength and crack-resistance to concrete, but I would be concerned about the longevity of such thin steel.
Riversong | Aug 28, 2010 06:27pm | #2
Also, the one function of rebar in a concrete wall that Helix cannot duplicate is the ability to tie the wall to the footing and create a continuity of tensile resistance, or to resist horizontal displacement, uplift and overturning forces.
eyremountllc | Sep 01, 2010 08:40pm | #3
Thanks. I agree Helix may not be able to replace the rebar's ability to tie the wall to the footing.

Thanks
Amcclennan | Oct 17, 2018 03:01pm | #4
What if you have vertical rebar in the footing to tie it to the wa, then use helix in the wall. Do you need horizontal rebar in the wall? Thanks!
Expert Member

MALCOLM TAYLOR | Oct 17, 2018 10:25pm | #5
Alec,
Unfortunately that's not a call you can make. The reinforcement is dictated by the engineer designing your project.