A Machine Learning Model for Torsion Strength of Externally Bonded FRP-Reinforced Concrete Beams

Abstract

Strengthening of reinforced concrete (RC) beams subjected to significant torsion is an ongoing area of research. In addition, fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) is the most popular choice as a strengthening material due to its superior properties. Moreover, machine learning models have successfully modeled complex behavior affected by many parameters. This study will introduce a machine learning model for calculating the ultimate torsion strength of concrete beams strengthened using externally bonded (EB) FRP. An experimental dataset from published literature was collected. Available models were outlined. Several machine learning models were developed and evaluated. The best model was the wide neural network, which had the most accurate results with a coefficient of determination, root mean square error, mean average error, an average safety factor, and coefficient of variation values of 0.93, 1.66, 0.98, 1.11, and 45%. It was selected and further compared with the models from the existing literature. The model showed an improved agreement and consistency with the experimental results compared to the available models from the literature. In addition, the effect of each parameter on the strength was identified and discussed. The most dominant input parameter is effective depth, followed by FRP-reinforcement ratio and strengthening scheme, while fiber orientation has proven to have the least effect on the prediction output accuracy.