Multi-objective optimization of concrete mixture proportions using machine learning and metaheuristic algorithms

For the optimization of concrete mixture proportions, multiple objectives (e.g., strength, cost, slump) with many variables (e.g., concrete components) under highly nonlinear constraints need to be optimized simultaneously. The current single-objective optimization models are not applicable to multi-objective optimization (MOO). This study proposes an MOO method based on machine learning (ML) and metaheuristic algorithms to optimize concrete mixture proportions. First, the performances of different ML models in the prediction of concrete objectives are compared on data sets collected from the published literature. The winner is selected as the objective function for the optimization procedure. In the optimization step, a multi-objective particle swarm optimization algorithm is used to optimize mixture proportions to achieve optimal objectives. The results show that the backpropagation neural network has better performance on continuous data (e.g., strength), whereas the random forest algorithm has higher prediction accuracy on more discrete data (e.g., slump). The Pareto fronts of a bi-objective mixture optimization problem for high-performance concrete and a tri-objective mixture optimization problem for plastic concrete are successfully obtained by the MOO model. The MOO model can serve as a design guide to facilitate decision-making before the construction phase. (C) 2020 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.