Steel and Concrete
Materials science focuses heavily on the use of steel and concrete—two of the most essential materials for construction.
Steel:
Tensile Strength: Steel has high tensile strength, meaning it can withstand tension (stretching forces) without breaking.
Reinforcement: It is commonly used in the form of reinforcement bars (rebar) embedded in concrete to enhance the structural strength of buildings, bridges, and other infrastructure.
Durability: Steel is durable, resistant to impact, and can be shaped into various forms, making it versatile for complex structural designs.
Concrete:
Compressive Strength: Concrete excels in compressive strength, allowing it to handle heavy loads and forces, which is why it is widely used in foundations, columns, and slabs.
Longevity: When properly mixed and cured, concrete can last for decades, making it an essential material for infrastructure development.
Combination with Steel: Concrete alone lacks tensile strength, but when combined with steel reinforcement, it creates a composite material (reinforced concrete) that is capable of handling both compressive and tensile stresses, offering superior strength and durability.
