Author(s): Liwei Zhang and Mei Chen

Abstract: The rapid growth of high-rise construction has amplified the need for structural systems that combine strength, efficiency, and sustainability. This research investigates the optimization of steel-concrete composite beams to reduce environmental impact while enhancing structural performance. Using an integrated multi-objective optimization framework, the study evaluated 20 design cases involving variations in steel section geometry, concrete slab thickness, and shear connector configurations. Finite element analysis was combined with evolutionary algorithms and life-cycle assessment to minimize material use and embodied carbon while maximizing load-bearing capacity and serviceability. The results revealed a 20% reduction in steel mass and approximately 19% reduction in embodied carbon compared to baseline Eurocode-conforming designs, with simultaneous improvements in flexural capacity (+7%) and service deflection (-16.7%). Regression and sensitivity analyses confirmed steel mass as the dominant factor influencing embodied carbon. These findings demonstrate that performance-based optimization can effectively integrate structural, environmental, and economic goals, offering a practical and scalable strategy for sustainable high-rise construction. The proposed approach provides actionable insights for structural engineers, sustainability consultants, and policymakers to adopt optimization tools in design workflows, thereby advancing sustainable urban development.

Pages: 51-55 | Views: 15 | Downloads: 7

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