Concrete reinforcement refers to the inclusion of materials with higher tensile strength and ductility—most commonly steel bars (rebar), welded wire mesh, or fibres—to compensate for concrete’s natural weakness in tension and to control cracking.
Common types of reinforcement:
- Deformed steel bars (rebar) in various grades and diameters
- Welded wire mesh (fabric reinforcement)
- Steel fibres (for distributed reinforcement)
- Prestressing strands and tendons
- Stainless steel or corrosion-resistant bars (for aggressive environments)
Proper reinforcement detailing is critical to structural performance, ensuring adequate load transfer, crack control, durability, and overall structural integrity throughout the design life of the structure.
