What is the primary function of steel reinforcement in concrete?

The primary function of steel reinforcement in concrete is to enhance tensile strength and ductility. Concrete is strong in compression but weak in tension. This means that while it can bear a lot of weight pushing down on it, it can crack or fail when pulled apart or under tensile stress. By incorporating steel reinforcement, which has high tensile strength, the overall strength of the concrete structure is greatly improved.

Steel also has the capacity to deform without failing, which contributes to the ductility of the structure. This means that reinforced concrete can better withstand unexpected loads or movements without experiencing catastrophic failure, allowing for a certain degree of bending or stretching before cracking or breaking. This combination of enhanced tensile strength and ductility is crucial for the longevity and durability of concrete structures under various loads and environmental conditions.