Physical, Geometrical, Chemical and Mechanical Properties of Some Selected Reinforcing Steel Bars From Steel Plants

This study critically examined the quality of reinforcing steel bars in Nigeria due to frequent building collapses. It investigated five sizes (10-25 mm) from six local brands (A–F) for compliance with necessary standards. Testing included mechanical (tensile), hardness, chemical, geometrical, physical properties, and SEM-EDS analysis. Yield Strength showed significant variation, ranging from 360.96 MPa to 634.99 MPa. Ultimate Tensile Strength (UTS) ranged from 573.62 MPa to 791.43 MPa, and Elongation showed adequate ductility (16.66% to 41.31%). Only sample A25 failed the NIS and ASTM yield strength standards. Only a few samples (A10, B10, B12, E20) met the stricter BS 4449 yield strength standard.8All brands met the ASTMA706 and NIS 117 standards for UTS, but A10 and A20 failed the BS 4449 threshold. In terms of chemical composition (C, Mn, P, S, CEV), only Brand A consistently met all (BS 4449, NIS, ASTM A706) requirements. Brands B, C, D, E, and F showed inconsistent adherence to the required chemical composition standards