Traditional steel TMT reinforcement used in residential construction is gradually falling out of fashion due to the emergence of new options that can maintain resistance to corrosion for a long time. These new materials are still steel TMT bars but differ from ordinary ones by having more advanced characteristics. One such solution is epoxy-coated reinforcement (CRS).
Epoxy-coated reinforcement is a standard steel or TMT bar onto which a protective layer of epoxy resin is applied to prevent rust. This layer is usually green, so it is also called a 'green bar.'
Although ordinary TMT bars are significantly cheaper, epoxy-coated bars cost more due to the additional protective coating applied over the standard TMT bar.
The epoxy-coated TMT bar is equipped with an extra protective layer that prevents direct contact between the metal and water and air. This layer is formed by spraying an epoxy polymer powder using electrostatic application onto the standard TMT bar, creating a green or blue coating.
In contrast, a standard TMT bar is thermo-mechanically treated steel and does not have an external protective layer; it only serves as a basic barrier against corrosion. There is a risk of rust formation when exposed to excessive humidity or water. The cost of such anti-corrosion or coated bars can vary from approximately 80 to 90 rubles per kilogram, depending on the brand and quality.
Currently, many people prefer to use this coated reinforcement instead of the standard TMT bar when building structures. Although the initial cost may seem higher, this reinforcement offers greater durability and also eliminates the problem of rust formation.