Structural analysis of slab-on-grade and raft foundations reinforced with polymeric macrofibers
a systematic review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47236/2594-7036.2026.v10.2142Keywords:
Fiber reinforced concrete, Polymeric macrofibers, Punching shear, Raft foundation, Systematic reviewAbstract
The use of slab-on-grade and raft foundations demands efficient solutions for crack control and increased load-bearing capacity. The present study conducted a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) to analyze the technical feasibility of partially or totally replacing conventional reinforcement with synthetic macrofibers (polypropylene), focusing on flexural behavior, punching shear, and toughness. The search was conducted in the Scopus and Web of Science databases in February 2026, following the PRISMA 2020 protocol and limited to open access articles, resulting in the selection of 10 experimental and numerical articles published between 2021 and 2026. The results indicate that, although polypropylene fibers present a lower first-crack load compared to metallic reinforcement, they provide an average increase of 20% to 28% in ultimate load capacity and change the failure mode from brittle to pseudoductile. Studies highlight the efficacy of fibers in mitigating punching shear failures in flat slabs (up to 34% increase in load) and in compensating for stiffness loss in slabs with openings. The review also points to the superiority of hybrid systems (steel + polypropylene) and the need for non-linear calculation models, as traditional methods can overestimate resistance by up to 45%. It is concluded that polymeric macrofibers represent a robust alternative for shallow foundations, offering execution advantages and safe performance at the ultimate limit state.Downloads
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