Question:

Nominal cover to reinforcement is provided to :
A. Protect reinforcement against corrosion.
B. Provide shear resistance.
C. Protect reinforcement against fire.
D. Develop sufficient bond strength along surface area of reinforcement bars.
Choose the correct answer from the options given below :

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Cover requirements increase as exposure conditions become more severe (e.g., "Mild" requires 20mm, but "Extreme" requires 75mm).
Updated On: May 20, 2026
  • A and D only
  • B, C and D only
  • A, C and D only
  • A, B and C only
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The Correct Option is C

Solution and Explanation

Concept: Nominal cover is the design depth of concrete from the outer surface to the nearest surface of the reinforcement. It is a multi-functional requirement in RCC design.

Step 1:
Durability and Corrosion (A).
Concrete provides an alkaline environment that passivates steel. A thick enough cover prevents moisture, oxygen, and chlorides from reaching the steel, thus preventing corrosion.

Step 2:
Fire Resistance (C).
Concrete has low thermal conductivity. Cover acts as insulation, delaying the temperature rise in the reinforcement during a fire, which helps the structure maintain its load-carrying capacity for a specified duration.

Step 3:
Bond Strength (D).
For the steel and concrete to act together, stress must be transferred between them. Sufficient cover ensures that the concrete surrounding the bar does not split, allowing for the full development of bond strength.

Step 4:
Evaluate Shear Resistance (B).
Shear resistance is provided by the concrete section itself and vertical stirrups. While cover is part of the section, its specific purpose is not to "provide shear resistance."
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