Everyday Science · 45 sec
Reinforced concrete
The science behind something you encounter, use, or wonder about.
The useful idea
- Concrete needs reinforcement
Reinforced concrete, also called ferroconcrete or ferro-concrete, is a composite material in which concrete's relatively low tensile strength
- Steel reinforces
The reinforcement is usually, though not necessarily, steel reinforcing bars (known as rebar) and is usually embedded passively in the concrete before the concrete sets.
- The materials work together
Reinforced concrete, also called ferroconcrete or ferro-concrete, is a composite material
Why this matters
Look for Reinforced concrete the next time you notice this pattern in everyday life.
Try this
Look for Reinforced concrete the next time you notice this pattern in everyday life.
Test your recall
Which idea belongs to the explanation of Reinforced concrete?
- Concrete needs reinforcement — correct
- Steel reinforces
- The materials work together
Reinforced concrete, also called ferroconcrete or ferro-concrete, is a composite material in which concrete's relatively low tensile strength