Reinforced Brickwork

Definition. Reinforced brickwork (abbreviation R.B.) is a composite structural material consisting of load-bearing brickwork masonry into which lengths of suitable metal (normally steel) are introduced and so bonded as to render the resultant composite capable of resisting not only the compressive stresses but also the tensile and shear stresses which obtain in a structure. It follows from this definition that
not only may individual structural members, such as walls, columns and simple, continuous and cantilever beams and slabs be rationally designed and constructed in reinforced brickwork, but that those bonded assemblages of such members normally designated "framed structures," may also be so designed and constructed.

Conrad W. Hamann