Which of the following is NOT a property of reinforced concrete?

Reinforced concrete is a composite material that combines concrete with reinforcing steel to enhance various mechanical properties. One of its key advantages is that it significantly improves tensile strength. Concrete, by itself, is strong in compression but weak in tension; the addition of steel reinforcement mitigates this weakness, resulting in a structure that can withstand tensile stresses without cracking.

Better thermal resistance is another beneficial property of reinforced concrete. This material can offer good thermal mass, which helps in regulating temperature fluctuations, providing energy efficiency in certain applications.

Increased compressive strength is a fundamental characteristic of reinforced concrete. The combination of high-strength concrete and the inclusion of reinforcing bars allows the structure to bear substantial loads, making it ideal for high-rise buildings, bridges, and other critical infrastructure.

However, the assertion that reinforced concrete reduces weight is not a defining property. In fact, adding steel reinforcement typically increases the overall weight of the structure compared to plain concrete. The weight factor is an essential consideration in design because it impacts the load on foundations and other structural elements, influencing the overall structural integrity. Therefore, reduced weight does not align with the characteristics typically associated with reinforced concrete.