Optimization of Reinforced Concrete Columns Subjected to Uniaxial Loading

Abstract

The distance from extreme compression fiber to neutral axis (c) is depended to combinations of axial load and flexural moment capacities of reinforced concrete (RC) columns. Since c is depended to different internal forces, the value of c cannot be found without assuming the final design. Thus, it can be iteratively searched in order to find the flexural moment capacity of columns under an axial loading. By using the presented method, the solution with the minimum cost ensuring maximum flexural moment and axial load is found. A random search technique is explained in this chapter for optimum design of uniaxial RC columns with minimum cost. In optimization, design of RC columns is done by considering the design rules described in ACI 318- Building Code Requirements for Structural Concrete. The random search technique (RST) for optimization of RC uniaxial columns is effective on finding optimum cross-sections and reinforcement design with minimum cost.