Q. Nycon fibers retain moisture. Is this a problem especially in geographical areas with lots of freeze-thaw?
Nycon fibers absorb and retain a small amount of moisture. This retained moisture has no negative impact on the ability of a concrete matrix to resist Freeze-Thaw degradation. The opposite is true. The moisture in the Nycon fibers will depart the fibers gradually and chemically combine with the cement particles at the surface of the discrete fibers that have not reacted or only partially reacted. This ability to retain moisture therefore is a significant plus for Nycon fibers. Over time as the cement particles to hydrate the concrete becomes denser and the bond between the mortar matrix and Nycon fiber is enhanced. The greater density of the matrix translates to reduced permeability, which means less potential of Freeze-Thaw damage.

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