Kuitubetoni

Kuitubetoni is a type of lightweight, prefabricated concrete building system originating from Finland. Developed in the 1940s by Finnish engineer Yrjö Korhonen, kuitubetoni was designed to provide a quick and efficient solution for post-WWII housing needs. The system consists of pre-fabricated concrete panels with rebar reinforcement, which are then assembled into larger structures using steel connectors.

Kuitubetoni's name translates to "wire-wood concrete" in Finnish, referencing the use of rebar as a substitute for traditional wooden framing. This design innovation allowed for stronger, more durable buildings that could withstand harsh Scandinavian weather conditions. The system's simplicity and speed of construction were especially beneficial in post-war Finland, where a rapid expansion of housing was required to accommodate a growing population.

Kuitubetoni buildings typically feature a series of pre-fabricated concrete panels, often with vertical windows and horizontal doors. The exterior is characterized by a distinctive pattern of transverse rebar rods. While the system was popular in Finland and Yugoslavia, its global adoption was limited due to growing competition from more standardized, mass-produced building materials.

Despite its relatively limited use, kuitubetoni's design and construction techniques have influenced various prefabricated building systems, particularly in Scandinavian countries. Its innovative use of rebar reinforcement and prefabrication have contributed to the development of more advanced building systems, such as Finland's renowned yritys-style modular houses.