Evolutionary topology optimization of spatial steel-concrete structures

Topology optimization techniques based on finite element analysis have been widely used in many fields, but most of the research and applications are based on single-material structures. Extended from the bi-directional evolutionary structural optimization (BESO) method, a new topology optimization technique for 3D structures made of multiple materials is presented in this paper. According to the sum of each element’s principal stresses in the design domain, a material more suitable for this element would be assigned. Numerical examples of a steel-concrete cantilever, two different bridges and four floor systems are provided to demonstrate the effectiveness and practical value of the proposed method for the conceptual design of composite structures made of steel and concrete.