Open Access

REVIEW

Basalt Fiber for Pavements in China: Properties, Standardized Design, and Construction Practices

Guowu Li¹, Xiaopeng Huang², Tao Zhu¹, Yi Zheng¹, Peyman Aela^3,*

1 Jinyun County Communications Investment Group Co., Ltd., Lishui, China
2 Zhejiang Communications Investment Expressway Operation Management Co., Ltd., Hangzhou, China
3 Institute for High Speed Rail and System Integration, School of Civil Engineering, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK

* Corresponding Author: Peyman Aela. Email:

(This article belongs to the Special Issue: Sustainable and Durable Construction Materials)

Structural Durability & Health Monitoring 2026, 20(4), 7 https://doi.org/10.32604/sdhm.2026.078679

Received 06 January 2026; Accepted 02 March 2026; Issue published 30 June 2026

Abstract

Basalt fiber (BF), derived from abundant volcanic rock in China, represents a sustainable reinforcement material for pavement engineering, addressing challenges like durability, corrosion, and environmental impact. This comprehensive review synthesizes BF’s properties, including high tensile strength (3000–4800 MPa), thermal stability (−269°C to 700°C), and superior chemical resistance compared to steel or polypropylene fibers. Production involves melting basalt at 1450°C–1500°C, with China leading in resources and standards like JT/T776.1-2010. Applications in asphalt concrete enhance rutting resistance by 30%–50% and fatigue life by 20%–40%, while in cement concrete, BF improves crack resistance and impermeability by 30%–55%. BF composite rebars offer corrosion-free alternatives for bridges and pavements, reducing energy consumption to 46% of steel equivalents. Engineering practices, including mix designs and construction methods, demonstrate economic viability and sustainability benefits, aligning with China’s “Made in China 2025” initiatives. Future prospects emphasize hybrid systems and standardization for broader adoption.

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Keywords

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