Optimization of Columns and Bent Caps of RC Bridges for Cost and CO2 Emission

Abstract

This paper describes a methodology for optimal seismic design of reinforced concrete 3D columns and bent caps (beams) of bridges. Design variables include compressive strength of concrete, geometry, as well as longitudinal and shear reinforcement of columns and beams. The optimization is performed to minimize the cost and CO₂ emissions using the enhanced colliding bodies optimization (ECBO) algorithm. The trade-off between cost and CO₂ emissions shows that in the design for minimizing CO₂ emissions compared to the design based on the cost minimization, increasing 1.4 % in cost can decrease CO₂ emissions by 6.1%.