Regen Fiber (Fairfax, Iowa, U.S.) announces that it received an award at the Iowa Better Concrete Conference in early November by the Iowa Ready Mixed Concrete Association (IRMCA, Ankeny, Iowa, U.S.) and American Concrete Institute (ACI) Iowa Chapter for sustainable practices in a project that explored the use of Regen Fiber recycled fibers in concrete.

The Excellence in Concrete Awards recognize outstanding projects from throughout the state. Entries were judged on the following criteria: architectural design, engineering and construction challenges, complexity of project, uniqueness of project, workmanship, finished impression and diverse application of ready mixed concrete. 

Regen Fiber’s project supported Bryant Mente Shop and Drive in Marengo, Iowa. The fibers were sourced from decommissioned wind turbine blades. The blades are mechanically processed to extract the durable fibers, which are then incorporated into the concrete mix as a partial replacement for traditional reinforcement methods. Used on both the shop floor and drive areas, the mix with these Regen Fiber fibers was evaluated for its long-term durability, resistance to cracking and performance under freeze-thaw cycles. Aligning with LEED and other green-building certification goals, this application enhances the project’s appeal for sustainability. 

The project was further supported by ready mix concrete producer Manatt’s Inc. (Brooklyn) and concrete subtractor Fiser Construction (Marengo).

“We’re proud to see Regen Fiber play a role in this award-winning project,” says Jeff Woods, director of business development, Regen Fiber. “By transforming retired wind turbine blades into high-performance reinforcement fibers, we’re helping contractors and producers achieve durability, finishability and reduce early stage curling and cracking — all while advancing sustainable practices in concrete. This recognition highlights what’s possible when innovation and collaboration come together to reduce the carbon footprint in construction.”