Betonstahl

Betonstahl is steel reinforcement used in reinforced concrete to carry tensile forces and improve structural performance. In German-language practice, it is often referred to as Bewehrungsstahl, but the term Betonstahl is widely understood as the reinforcing steel placed within concrete. It is supplied as bars (Bewehrungsstäbe) or as welded fabric (Bewehrungsstahlmatten) and is designed to bond with surrounding concrete for composite action.

Most Betonstahl is carbon steel produced by hot rolling, with surface deformations or ridges to create a mechanical bond with concrete. Forms include deformed bars and welded mesh. In Europe, reinforcement grades such as B500A, B500B and B500C are common, corresponding to nominal yield strengths around 500 MPa; other regional grades (for example B400 or B450) may be used where specified by national codes.

Standards governing Betonstahl include EN 10080 Bewehrungsstahl and the design rules of EN 1992 (Eurocode 2). National standards complement these with local requirements. Typical diameters range from several millimeters up to around 40–50 mm, depending on structural needs. Coatings and corrosion protection—such as epoxy coating, galvanization, or the use of corrosion-resistant alloys—are employed in aggressive environments or where extended service life is required.

Applications include reinforcement in foundations, columns, beams, slabs, walls, tunnels and other concrete elements. Proper detailing covers spacing, concrete cover, development and splice lengths, bending radii, and anchorage to ensure reliable performance under load.

Sustainability: steel reinforcement is largely recyclable, and reclaimed Betonstahl can be reprocessed and reused, contributing to lifecycle efficiency in concrete construction.