PROJECT OF THE MONTH 04/2026 | Launched at the end of February 2026, the research project FATIFIB represents a forward-looking initiative aimed at advancing resource-efficient construction methods in structural engineering. The project’s objective is to develop new scientific foundations for the safe application of steel fibre-reinforced concrete in structural components subjected to cyclic loading.
Over a project duration of 36 months, leading partners from academia and industry are working closely together. TU Wien serves as the academic partner and consortium leader, headed by Univ.-Prof. Dr Patrick Huber, and plays a central role in the project. Industry partners include PORR AG, represented by Dipl.-Ing. Markus Halper, and VCE Vienna Consulting Engineers ZT GmbH, represented by Dr Dieter Pichler. The project is funded by the Austrian Research Promotion Agency (FFG).
Focus on Sustainability and Efficiency in Concrete Construction
At the core of FATIFIB lies the question of how steel fibre-reinforced concrete can be safely and efficiently applied in load-bearing structures exposed to repeated actions, such as traffic or wind.
“By making targeted use of steel fibres, the demand for conventional reinforcement can be significantly reduced,” explains VCE Managing Director Dieter Pichler.
The advantages are clear: less reinforcing steel means reduced material consumption, lower CO₂ emissions and a significant simplification of construction processes. At the same time, installation efforts and construction times can be shortened — representing a key lever for enhancing both economic efficiency and sustainability in the construction industry.
Strong Partnership for Innovative Solutions
At the kick-off meeting held at the end of February, partners jointly defined expectations, developed initial concepts and refined key research questions. Close collaboration between academia and industry forms the foundation for innovative solutions that are intended to be transferred into practical application in both infrastructure and building construction over the long term.
With FATIFIB, the project partners are making a significant contribution to the advancement of modern concrete construction and to strengthening sustainable construction practices across the German-speaking region.