Principal investigator: Yaghoob Farnam
University: Drexel University
Industry partner: R&M International, LLC
High-performance fiber-reinforced concrete offers exceptional strength, ductility, and durability for infrastructure applications. However, current manufacturing practices rely heavily on steel and high-quality synthetic fibers which are costly, limiting broader adoption. Therefore, it is necessary to develop cost-effective and sustainable HPFRC manufacturing solutions that enhance performance while reducing reliance on high-cost materials for Pennsylvania concrete producers. Drexel University will collaborate with R&M International, LLC, a Pennsylvania-based manufacturer of recycled carbon fibers. Together, we propose a manufacturing-focused study to develop a new class of functional fiber-reinforced HPFRC incorporating bio-based self-healing polymeric fibers engineered at Drexel University, BioFiber, and recycled carbon fibers produced by R&M International.
The project will optimize HPFRC formulations for each fiber system and systematically evaluate their effects on workability, fresh-state rheology, compressive and flexural strength, water absorption, and autonomous crack-healing behavior. Graduate and undergraduate Manufacturing Fellows will work directly with the industry partner on testing, material validation, and scale-up considerations. Expected outcomes include validated, manufacturable HPFRC systems with improved ductility, durability, and crack-repair capability, along with transferable manufacturing guidance that strengthens the competitiveness of Pennsylvania’s concrete, fiber recycling, and infrastructure industries.