What is the most common type of reinforcement used in concrete structures?

The most common type of reinforcement used in concrete structures is deformed bar. Deformed bars are specially designed steel bars with surface patterns that improve mechanical anchorage in concrete, enhancing the bond between the two materials. This results in a significantly increased resistance to tensile forces within the concrete, which is crucial because concrete is strong in compression but weak in tension.

Deformed bars are widely used because they can be produced in various sizes and strengths, allowing them to be tailored to specific structural requirements. Their use is well-documented in standards and specifications, which promotes uniformity and consistency in construction practices.

In contrast, welded wire reinforcement, while useful for certain applications like slabs, does not provide the same level of tensile strength as deformed bars. Plain bars have a smooth surface and are used less frequently because they achieve less bonding with concrete compared to deformed bars. The term “CAPTION Rebar” does not refer to a recognized standard type in construction, which suggests it is not commonly used or perhaps misidentified. Thus, deformed bars stand out as the preferred choice for reinforcing concrete structures due to their effective performance in structural applications.