In an era when environmental responsibility shapes every industry, the construction sector faces a pressing need to evolve toward more sustainable practices. Traditional materials like concrete and asphalt dominate construction but come with significant ecological footprints due to their intensive resource use and emissions during production.
FORTA, a leader in the field, addresses these challenges with innovative fiber-reinforced solutions that enhance the durability and sustainability of concrete and asphalt structures.
Concrete and asphalt are essential to constructing roads, bridges, buildings, and infrastructure worldwide. However, their production is associated with high carbon emissions, energy consumption, and the depletion of natural resources. Traditional concrete relies heavily on cement, which accounts for nearly 8% of CO₂ emissions globally. Similarly, asphalt production generates significant greenhouse gases.
Achieving true asphalt and concrete sustainability has been challenging, mainly because concrete is the second-most consumed material on Earth after water. The longevity and maintenance needs of these materials further compound their environmental impact.
To promote sustainability and transparency, EPDs have become a crucial tool in the construction industry. They provide standardized, objective reports on the environmental performance of products throughout their life cycles, from raw material extraction to manufacturing, transportation, and end-of-life disposal. By relying on these reports, architects, engineers, and builders can make informed decisions based on the environmental impact of the materials they choose.
FORTA has taken a leading role in concrete and asphalt sustainability by obtaining EPDs for its products, such as FORTA-FERRO®, a synthetic fiber for reinforcing concrete, and FORTA-FI®, a synthetic fiber reinforcement for asphalt. These reports demonstrate a commitment to transparency and environmental responsibility.
Synthetic fiber reinforcement is an advanced technology that enhances the strength and durability of concrete and asphalt while reducing their environmental footprint. Unlike traditional steel reinforcements, synthetic fibers like FORTA-FERRO and FORTA-FI offer a more sustainable alternative by minimizing the need for resource-intensive materials and reducing long-term maintenance costs. These capabilities make synthetic fibers ideal for construction projects looking to balance performance with pavement sustainability.
FORTA-FERRO is a high-performance macro synthetic fiber that reinforces concrete while reducing environmental impact. By replacing traditional steel reinforcements, it enhances concrete durability, minimizes cracking, and extends the life span of concrete structures. Its use leads to fewer repairs and lower material consumption, contributing to resource efficiency. Studies, including a Life Cycle Assessment of FORTA-FERRO, show that it reduces both emissions and energy usage as compared to traditional materials.
FORTA-FI is a high-strength synthetic fiber blend designed to reinforce asphalt while reducing its environmental footprint. By enhancing durability and extending the life span of asphalt surfaces, FORTA-FI minimizes maintenance needs and material consumption. Its unique aramid and polyolefin composition reduces rutting and improves performance across temperature extremes. A life cycle assessment of FORTA-FI highlights significant reductions in emissions and energy use compared to traditional asphalt reinforcement methods, making it an ideal choice for sustainable pavement solutions.
FORTA is a one-stop shop for construction solutions. With over 40 years of expertise, FORTA delivers end-to-end support, from engineering consultation to design services, ensuring a seamless transition from traditional rebar to advanced fiber reinforcement. Our holistic approach provides clients with all-encompassing construction solutions backed by technical expertise and customer-focused service.
As sustainability becomes a defining factor in construction, FORTA’s fiber reinforcement solutions offer a path forward for professionals looking to reduce their environmental impact while enhancing material performance. Contact our technical experts to learn how our fiber products can help your next project meet sustainability goals.
