Unbonded post tensioning is a way to reinforce concrete with high-strength steel strands known as tendons. An unbonded tendon is one in which the pre-stressing steel is bonded to the concrete at the anchorages. The most common unbonded systems are monostrand (single-strand) tendons, which are used in slabs and beams for buildings, parking structures, and slabs-on-ground.
A monostrand tendon consists of a 7-wire strand that’s coated with a corrosion-inhibiting grease and encased in an extruded plastic protective sheathing. The anchorage consists of an iron casting and a conical, 2-piece wedge that grips the strand.
Tendons are used to provide compressive strength and concrete decks. This is achieved by laying out a network of tendons and then pouring the concrete over them. When the concrete hardens and meets strength requirements, the cables are pulled by a hydraulic jack to hold the anchors in place.