10 Prestressing

This chapter briefly reviews the early history of prestressed concrete. It discusses the materials used and the systems of pre- and post-tensioning in use, particularly in the early days. It then describes its uses in the building field and the type of structures in which it is likely to be found.

• Synopsis

• The early years

• Early post-war use of prestressing

• Steel

• Concrete

• Pre-tensioned concrete

• Stressing systems (post-tensioning)

• Ducts and grouting

• Stressing of circular tanks

• Prestressed concrete units

• Prestressed concrete trusses

• Prestressed concrete frames

• Piles

• Special applications

• References