Abstract: Shrinkage cracking remains a significant concern in concrete structures, compromising their durability and serviceability. This paper offers a comprehensive examination of shrinkage cracking mechanisms in concrete structures reinforced with synthetic fibers, aiming to provide insights into effective mitigation strategies. The introduction outlines the detrimental effects of shrinkage-induced cracking on concrete structures, including reduced durability, aesthetic concerns, and potential structural vulnerabilities. The need for innovative solutions to address this issue is emphasized, setting the stage for the exploration of synthetic fiber reinforcement. The paper reviews various types of synthetic fibers commonly used in concrete reinforcement, including polypropylene, polyethylene, and nylon fibers, among others. Each fiber type's mechanical properties, such as tensile strength, modulus of elasticity, and aspect ratio, are discussed in relation to their effectiveness in mitigating shrinkage cracking. The mechanisms by which synthetic fibers influence the shrinkage behavior of concrete are elucidated, encompassing aspects such as fiber-matrix interactions, crack bridging, and residual stress redistribution. Experimental studies and field applications are analyzed to assess the effectiveness of synthetic fibers in controlling shrinkage cracking under different environmental and loading conditions. Furthermore, the paper examines key factors influencing the performance of synthetic fibers in mitigating shrinkage cracking, including fiber dosage, aspect ratio, distribution, and compatibility with concrete mixtures. Practical recommendations for optimizing fiber-reinforced concrete mix designs are provided based on empirical data and best practices.

| DOI: 10.17148/IJIREEICE.2024.12604