Optimum Design of Post-Tensioned Axially-Symmetric Cylindrical Reinforced Concrete Walls

Abstract

In this chapter, an optimization methodology for design of post-tensioned axially symmetric cylindrical reinforced concrete (RC) walls is presented. The objective of optimization is the minimization of total material cost of the wall including concrete, reinforced bars, post-tensioned cables, and form work required for wall and application of the post-tensioning. The optimized values are wall thickness, compressive strength of the concrete, locations and intensities of the post-tensioned loads, the diameter of the reinforcement bars (rebars), and distance between rebars. The optimization process employs the superposition method (SPM) for the analyses of the wall, and the design constraints are defined according to ACI-318: Building code requirements for structural concrete.