What is prestressing?
Prestressing is a technique that improves the mechanical properties of concrete by adding a high-performance steel cable that is incorporated in the construction and then tensioned. For the same loading, prestressing opens up new perspectives beyond the usual applications of reinforced concrete for construction works such as tunnels, barges, water reservoirs or bridges. Construction works designed in this way carry large loads, they are stiffer and lighter, and require less concrete and steel. Cables can be tensioned before concreting a beam (prestressing), or afterwards (post-tensioning). See our areas of expertise.
