The main characteristics of prestressed steel strands are high strength and good relaxation performance, and they are also relatively straight when unfolded. The common tensile strength grades are 1860 megapascals, and there are also strength grades such as 1720, 1770, 1960, 2000, 2160, 2230, and 2360 megapascals. This type of steel has a high yield strength.

The prestressed steel strand is mainly made of cold drawn high carbon steel, with trace amounts of phosphides and lubricant residues on the surface.

When the strength is particularly high (such as 2300 megapascals), alloy elements such as chromium need to be added, and galvanized high-strength products can increase the silicon content.

The surface of prestressed steel strands made of partial carbon steel is coated with materials such as zinc, zinc aluminum alloy, zinc aluminum magnesium alloy, epoxy resin, anti-corrosion grease, polyester, and high-density polyethylene sheath.