Betonneren

Betonneren is the Dutch verb meaning to concrete, or to pour and set concrete. It refers to the process of mixing cement, aggregate (such as sand and gravel), and water to create concrete, and then placing this mixture into forms or directly onto a surface. This material hardens over time, forming a durable and structural solid.

The process of betonneren is fundamental in construction for creating foundations, walls, floors, and various other structural elements. It involves careful preparation of the site, setting up formwork to contain the wet concrete, and ensuring proper mixing ratios. Once poured, the concrete needs to cure, a chemical process where it gains strength. This curing period is crucial for the final integrity of the structure.

In a broader, often metaphorical sense, "betonneren" can also refer to something being made very solid, unchangeable, or even rigid. This usage implies a sense of permanence or an inability to adapt. For example, a decision that is considered "betonneerd" is seen as final and difficult to alter. This figurative meaning highlights the inherent strength and immutability associated with concrete itself.