Predictive modeling of the lateral drift capacity of circular reinforced concrete columns using an evolutionary algorithm

The drift capacity of reinforced concrete (RC) columns is a crucial factor in displacement and seismic based design procedure of RC structures, since they might be able to withstand the loads or dissipate the energy applied through deformation and ductility. Considering the high costs of testing methods for observing the drift capacity and ductility of RC structural members in addition to the impact of numerous parameters, numerical analyses and predictive modeling techniques have very much been appreciated by researchers and engineers in this field. This study is concerned with providing an alternative approach, termed as linear genetic programming (LGP), for predictive modeling of the lateral drift capacity (Δ_max) of circular RC columns. A new model is developed by LGP incorporating various key variables existing in the experimental database employed and those well-known models presented by various researchers. The LGP model is examined from various perspectives. The comparison analysis of the results with those obtained by previously proposed models confirm the precision of the LGP model in estimation of the Δ_max factor. The results reveal the fact that the LGP model impressively outperforms the existing models in terms of predictability and performance and can be definitely used for further engineering purposes. These approve the applicability of LGP technique for numerical analysis and modeling of complicated engineering problems.