Multi-Objective Optimization Design of Hybrid Fiber-Reinforced ECC Based on Box-Behnken and NSGA-II

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Civil Engineering
• Composite Materials

Background:

• Engineered Cementitious Composites (ECCs) are crucial for high-performance construction.
• Enhancing ECC effectiveness, precision, low-carbon footprint, and high performance is an ongoing challenge.
• Hybrid fiber reinforcement offers a promising approach to improve material properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop novel hybrid fiber-reinforced ECCs using ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) and basalt fibers (BFs).
• To investigate the effects of water-to-binder ratios and fiber contents on mechanical properties.
• To achieve multi-objective optimization of ECC mix proportions for enhanced strength and toughness.

Main Methods:

• Utilized Response Surface Methodology (RSM) with a Box-Behnken design model.
• Employed Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) to validate regression models.
• Applied the NSGA-II algorithm and TOPSIS method for multi-objective optimization.

Main Results:

• UHMWPE and BFs demonstrated a significant positive hybrid effect.
• Factor significance order: UHMWPE content > BF content > water-binder ratio.
• Achieved an optimal mix proportion: water-to-binder ratio of 0.21, UHMWPE 1.51%, BF 0.85%.

Conclusions:

• The developed hybrid fiber-reinforced ECC offers enhanced performance.
• Regression models showed high fitting accuracy, validated by ANOVA.
• Provides a valuable reference for optimizing ECC mix design for diverse requirements.