CAMBRIDGE, MA, Feb. 1, 2007 ? Grace Construction Products, a worldwide leader in products for the construction industry, announced that its STRUX® 90/40 synthetic macro fibers have received classification from Underwriters Laboratory (UL) for use as an alternate or in addition to welded wire fabric for 1, 1-1/2 and 2 hour fire rating, Floor-Ceiling D700, D800 and D900 Series Designs (fibers added to concrete mix at a rate up to a maximum of 5.0 lb of fiber for each cu yard of concrete).

This classification means that STRUX 90/40 has undergone evaluation by UL and complies with ANSI/SDI Code Provisions for fibers to replace welded wire fabric specified for temperature and shrinkage reinforcement. Applications covered by this classification include composite metal deck systems.

?We are proud that STRUX 90/40 has met the rigorous requirements of Underwriters Laboratory, an organization recognized worldwide for its integrity and commitment to safety. Since its introduction, STRUX has been embraced by the concrete construction industry for its superior performance and handling characteristics. This classification represents a significant achievement, and makes STRUX an excellent example of Grace?s commitment to innovation and leading-edge technology in construction products,? said Rob Madore, Marketing Manager at Grace.

Made from a unique polymer blend, STRUX 90/40 synthetic macro fibers are patented, high tenacity synthetic monofilaments, engineered to impart toughness, impact, and fatigue resistance to concrete. The fibers disperse evenly and rapidly throughout the concrete matrix thus making it much easier and safer to handle than other types of secondary reinforcement in the field.

STRUX offers many advantages include reducing or eliminating crack potential, maintaining post-crack load-carrying capability, and plastic shrinkage protection. STRUX also offers excellent finishability with an achievable fiber free finish.

In addition to use in composite metal deck systems, STRUX 90/40 is used in a wide variety of applications including slab-on-ground in residential and commercial projects such as retail buildings, airports, offices, schools, warehouses, and exterior pavements. Other unique applications range from structures in marine environments to vehicular bridges, ICF walls, soil stabilization, tunnel liners, and precast.

For more information about Grace?s product line, customers can contact their local Grace representative or visit the web site at www.graceconstruction.com.