There are many different types of steel reinforcement. The Iowa Department of Transportation conducted a study in 2006 called "Evaluation of Corrosion Resistance of Different Types of Steel Reinforcement." A possible research paper could be conducted on the inherent strengths of different types of steel reinforcement, their effectiveness and lifespan.
Material properties, flexural resistance and strain limits are some of the many properties of high-strength steel reinforcement discussed in the National Cooperative Highway Research Program study published in 2011. A similar study could be conducted in your state, based on the construction of high-rise buildings, roads, bridges and the cost of such reinforcements.
The ductility of low and normal classes of steel reinforcement is the focus of a compilation of studies over the last 60 years. This report suggested the appropriate design rules for the low and normal steel reinforcement. Following their lead, a research paper could be designed to expand on their study and test the ductility of high-strength steel reinforcement.
Two studies address epoxy-coated steel reinforcement properties in Texas and Oregon. Both studies investigated the properties of steel reinforcement for their states. As climatic and environmental conditions can change dramatically from state to state, if you live in another state, you might conduct a similar study for your or a neighboring state.
The bond strength of corrosion-resistant steel reinforcement may be investigated on the properties of microcomposite steel, epoxy-coated and uncoated reinforcement steel on roadways. You might want to determine what causes corrosion and the rate of growth of corrosion in these reinforcement materials.
Steel reinforcement is frequently used in structural column construction. Conduct a study of the minimal and maximum longitudinal reinforcement requirements for reinforced concrete columns. You might consider also investigating the limitations of the width of steel reinforced columns.
Crimped steel is a variation of steel reinforcement that could be studied. Define the properties, uses and cost effectiveness of using crimped-steel reinforcement in various building projects. Determine what it's pull-out and tensile strength is under varying conditions.