A technical seminar titled ‘Cost-effective use of 600 grade rebar and customized solutions’ was held at the initiative of the Technical Division of Bangladesh Bridge Authority (BBA). The seminar was held on 07 October 2025, at the Conference Room of the Bangladesh Bridge Authority (BBA). The use of high-strength 600 grade rebar, its economic benefits, and its potential in large infrastructure construction were discussed in detail, a press release said.
The chief guest at the event was Mohammad Abdur Rouf, Secretary of the Bridges Division and Executive Director of Bangladesh Bridges Authority. The keynote speaker was Dr. M. Shamim Z. Basunia, former professor and structural engineering expert at Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET). In addition, Dr. Rakib Ahsan, professor of the Department of Civil Engineering, BUET, has given a presentation titled ‘Enhancing Economy and Sustainability through High-Strength Reinforcement in Large-Scale Concrete Structures’ at the event. Among the distinguished attendees were Quazi Mohammad Ferdous, Chief Engineer of the Technical Division of BBA, along with several project directors, engineers, and officials.
Dr. Rakib Ahsan, Professor of the Department of Civil Engineering at BUET, said that using high-strength rods (high-strength reinforcement) such as 600 grade reduces the number of rods required in large concrete structures, while increasing the load-bearing capacity of the structure. As a result, on the one hand, construction costs are reduced. On the other hand, an environmentally friendly solution is ensured because it is possible to build a sustainable structure using less steel. His research also revealed that using 600 grade rods can save up to 10-25% of steel compared to conventional rods, which helps reduce construction costs. At the same time, due to the high strength, the amount of concrete required is also relatively low, which has a positive impact on the environment.
Dr. Rakib Ahsan emphasized that the use of such high-strength rods in the construction of large infrastructure projects in Bangladesh in the future will ensure sustainable development, economic savings, and long-term safety. At the same time, it will be a new horizon in the construction industry of Bangladesh.
Chief Guest Mohammad Abdur Rouf, Secretary of the Bridges Division and Executive Director of Bangladesh Bridges Authority, said, “Our country’s bridge and infrastructure projects are expanding rapidly. It is very important to ensure sustainable solutions and safety in these projects. We need to use rebar that is not only cost-effective, but its high strength and durability will reduce maintenance costs in the long run. I hope this will save government money, and the people will be able to enjoy safer infrastructure.”
Dr. M. Shamim Z. Basunia, former professor and structural engineering expert at Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET), said, “Bangladesh is now implementing one mega project after another. If international quality materials are not used in these projects, structural risks will remain. 600 grade rebar can ensure the sustainable strength of the structure through its advanced properties. This will increase the lifespan of the projects and make the country’s development activities more reliable.”
An experienced steel industry professional with a metallurgy background, Engr. Md. Saiful Islam, in his presentation, highlighted that the first Quantum Electric Arc Furnace (EAF) in Asia, installed by GPH Ispat Ltd., is among the most eco-friendly and advanced steelmaking technologies now being adopted by research-based countries and leading global steelmakers. He explained that, due to its state-of-the-art quality control, producing high-strength rebars including 600 MPa grade with consistent quality is remarkably easy.
He also noted that international rebar steelmaking standards of China, Canada, India, and the USA recommend using Electric Arc Furnace (EAF) along with Basic Oxygen Furnace (BOF) or Open-Hearth Furnace (OHF) routes for rebar steel production, whereas Induction Furnaces (IF) are not endorsed. In Bangladesh, however, most producers still rely on Induction Furnaces, which have not been endorsed by many countries for poor quality and sustainability concerns.
Citing the example of Thailand, he mentioned that after the Bangkok earthquake and subsequent building collapses, the Industry Ministry of Thailand decided to shut down all Induction Furnace-based steelmaking units due to inconsistent quality and poor sustainability. He also referred to a circular from India’s Roads & Highways Department requiring rebar certificates to include detailed information on the manufacturing process.
