Application of High-Strength and Corrosion-Resistant ASTM A1035 Steel Reinforcing Bar in Concrete High-Rise Construction

Concrete reinforcing steel congestion in high-rise structures is a major concern to design engineers. Congestion of the reinforcing steel decreases the efficiency of construction and adds greatly to the cost of construction of high-rise structures. MMFX Microcomposite steel bars (MMFX 2), conforming to ASTM A1035 specification, have high-strength properties that can be utilized to combat this problem. In addition, ASTM A1035 steel bar's distinct microstructure technology provides an answer for the worldwide corrosion problem. The technology that gives ASTM A1035 steel bar its mechanical properties also make it very corrosion resistant. Independent tests show that the chloride threshold of this uncoated steel is 5 to 6 times greater than that of conventional A615 steel bars and 1.75 greater than 2101 solid stainless steel bars. This paper presents the economical analysis done on the design and construction of different high-rise structures and make recommendations to designers on where cost savings can be realized. The use of ASTM A1035 steel bar reduced the amount of steel in some areas by up to 40% while providing a reduction in the installed cost of the material by 15-25% in the highly congested areas.