How does the placement of rebar work in a concrete slab?

The placement of rebar within a concrete slab is crucial for ensuring structural integrity and performance. When rebar is arranged in a grid pattern throughout the slab, it effectively distributes loads evenly across the surface. This grid layout allows the concrete to handle tensile stresses, which is necessary as concrete itself has high compressive strength but low tensile strength.

By using a grid pattern, the rebar reinforces the concrete, preventing cracking and minimizing the risk of structural failure under load. The spacing and placement of the rebar are carefully calculated based on the specific application and load requirements, ensuring that the slab can withstand forces such as weight, environmental factors, and more. Random or edge-only placement would not provide the necessary support and could lead to failures in areas subjected to higher stress concentrations.