What does "anchorage" refer to in reinforced concrete design?

In reinforced concrete design, "anchorage" specifically refers to ensuring that reinforcing bars, or rebar, are adequately embedded within the concrete. This process is crucial because it allows the rebar to develop sufficient bond strength with the concrete, which is essential for the composite action between the materials. When rebar is properly anchored, it effectively transfers tensile forces from the concrete to the steel reinforcement and vice versa, helping to resist cracking and structural failures. Proper anchorage contributes significantly to the durability and integrity of the reinforced concrete structure, allowing it to handle various loads throughout its lifecycle.