Although concrete is a strong material with significant compression, its tension is very weak. Similarly, regular concrete cannot withstand shear, tension, and compression stress. Reinforced concrete is a form of concrete with steel inserted to resist force or stress. Bars, mesh, or steel absorb the shear and tension in a concrete structure.
Before builders apply reinforced concrete to any building structure, they usually conduct a stress analysis. Stress analysis is a process that determines how the concrete will respond when it is subject to several loading conditions. It is also useful in determining the weak points of the concrete.
Also, builders usually place pressure on the steel reinforcement tendons while the concrete is being cast. The steel’s tensile strength and compressive strength work hand-in-hand to allow the reinforced concrete to maintain these stresses over a particular period.
Reinforced concrete is known for its fire-resistant properties, as it can withstand severe heat for as long as six hours. This is possible because reinforced concrete has a high thermal mass and absorbs heat at a really low rate. This ensures that the fire does not spread as fast.
