Category: Structure & materials
Prepared by Eng. Ahmed Fathy, Projects Manager ·
Definition
A post-tensioned slab contains high-strength steel tendons in ducts that are stressed once the concrete reaches enough strength. It allows spans of typically 8 to 12 m with a thinner slab and fewer columns.
Why it matters on a project
It suits car parks, offices and commercial buildings where open space matters. But it rules out casual coring later, since cutting a stressed tendon is dangerous.
Measurement and pricing
Concrete in cubic metres, ordinary rebar in tonnes, tendons in tonnes or linear metres with anchors, or a per square metre rate from a specialist subcontractor.
Common mistake
Coring the slab for later services without scanning for tendons, cutting a stressed tendon.
Frequently asked questions
Do post-tensioned slabs suit villas?
Rarely, because villa spans are short. They pay off in car parks, offices and commercial buildings with long spans.
When are the tendons stressed?
Once the concrete reaches the strength set by the designer, usually days after the pour based on cube results.
Related terms
- Solid slabA concrete slab of uniform thickness without voids, common for small and medium spans.
- Hollow-block (ribbed) slabA slab with concrete ribs between hollow blocks to reduce weight and increase spans.
- Reinforced concreteConcrete containing steel reinforcement to resist the tensile forces concrete alone cannot carry.
- ColumnA vertical element that carries slab and beam loads down to the footings.
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