Post-tension is defined as tensioning tendons after the concrete has hardened. Which term describes this process?

• A. Post Tension
• B. Pre Tension
• C. Auto Tension
• D. Ambient Tension

Answer: (A)

Post-tensioning is the method of applying prestress to concrete after it has hardened. In this approach, ducts or sleeves are placed in the concrete, and once the concrete reaches sufficient strength, steel tendons are threaded through those ducts, tensioned with anchors or jacks, and then secured. This induces compressive forces in the concrete to resist tensile loads in service. It differs from pre-tensioning, where the tendons are tensioned before the concrete is poured and the prestress is transferred as the concrete cures. The other terms aren’t standard names for this process, so the described method is best described as post-tensioning.