The Deutscher Ausschuβ für Eisenbeton (German Committee for Reinforced Concrete) 1907-1945. Part 1: Before World War I

This two-part paper examines the foundation, the research work and the published output of the Deutscher Ausschuβ für Eisenbeton - the German Committee for Reinforced Concrete - reflecting its relationship with the expanding and changing use of concrete in Germany during the first half of the twentieth century. It aims to bring to the attention of the English-speaking world a record of achievement that, whilst recognised in Germany, is less well-known abroad. The paper reviews the early development of the cement, and the unreinforced-and reinforced-concrete industries in Germany in the late nineteenth century. It describes the conditions for the use of reinforced concrete at the turn of the twentieth century and the events that led to the founding of the Ausschuβ in 1907. The Ausschuβ was set up as an official attempt to regulate good concrete practice on a scientific basis, publish results of tests on the properties of concrete and reinforced concrete, to establish methods for designing reinforced-concrete elements (especially floors) and to provide guidance for those wanting to use reinforced concrete. The paper includes sketches of the more prominent researchers and members of the Ausschuβ. Part 2 of the paper, continuing the story after WWI until the end of WWII, will be published in the next volume of Construction History.