Use of basalt fibers for concrete structures

•BFRP bars had an ffu = 1,000 MPa, Ef = 45 GPa, and Ld = 32db.•Flexural members with BFRP bars are controlled by serviceability requirements.•ACI 440.1R-06 accurately predicts the nominal moment capacity.•ACI 440.1R-06 underestimates service deflection for low reinforcement ratios.•Basalt fibers increased fc′ & fr of concrete containing fly ash with low w/c.

This study investigated the use of basalt fiber bars as flexural reinforcement for concrete members and the use of chopped basalt fibers as an additive to enhance the mechanical properties of concrete. The material characteristics and development length of two commercially-available basalt fiber bars were evaluated. Test results indicate that flexural design of concrete members reinforced with basalt fiber bars should ensure compression failure and satisfying the serviceability requirements. ACI 440.1R-06 accurately predicts the flexural capacity of members reinforced with basalt bars, but it significantly underestimates the deflection at service load level. Use of chopped basalt fibers had little effect on the concrete compressive strength; however, significantly enhanced its flexural modulus.