The Effect of Fiber Hybridization on the Permeability and Porosity of Concrete Aerodrome Pavement: A Review

Abstract

Concrete pavements in aerodromes experience high stress due to aircraft loading, temperature fluctuations, and long-term fatigue, often leading to premature cracking and failure. Traditional concrete solutions reinforced with single fibers do not sufficiently address both micro- and macro-cracking. This study investigates the novel use of hybrid basalt fibers (BF)—a combination of micro- and macro-scale basalt fibers—to improve the mechanical, durability, and shrinkage-related performance of concrete for aerodrome pavement applications. Using a qualitative review methodology, over 50 studies were analyzed, focusing on the properties of fiber-reinforced concrete (FRC) and hybrid fiber systems. The reviewed studies include experimental works that tested mix proportions with fiber volumes ranging from 0.5% to 1.5% and cementitious matrices incorporating various BF geometries. Findings show that hybrid BF-reinforced concrete enhances flexural strength by up to 27%, compressive strength by up to 41.24%, and splitting tensile strength by 16%. Additionally, shrinkage strain was reduced by 10–34%, and water absorption decreased from 3.5% to 1.2%. The proposed innovation—a dual-layer reinforcement strategy involving a basalt fiber textile layer on the base course, combined with hybridized BF concrete—has not been previously reported in any international studies. This approach offers a cost-effective, high-performance, and sustainable solution for future airport infrastructure development. The outcomes are highly relevant to global engineering research in advanced pavement materials, particularly in countries seeking resilient and low-maintenance airfield construction solutions.