# Predictive modeling of wide-shallow RC beams shear strength considering stirrups effect using (FEM-ML) approach

## TL;DR

This study combines finite element analysis and machine learning to predict the shear strength of wide-shallow reinforced concrete beams, showing high accuracy and the importance of concrete strength and beam geometry.

## Contribution

A novel (FEM-ML) approach is introduced to predict shear strength of wide-shallow RC beams with high accuracy using machine learning models.

## Key findings

- The FEM model showed a maximum 8% and 12% difference in loads and deflections compared to experimental results.
- Machine learning models achieved over 95% correlation, with ANN reaching 99% accuracy.
- Concrete strength and beam aspect ratio were identified as significant factors influencing shear strength.

## Abstract

This paper presents an analysis and prediction of the shear strength of wide-shallow reinforced concrete beams, utilizing Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and machine learning techniques. The methodology involves validating a detailed Finite Element Model (FEM) against experimental results, conducting a parametric study, and developing three Machine Learning prediction equations. The FEM captures concrete and steel behaviors, including cracking and crushing for concrete and linear isotropic properties for steel reinforcement. Loading and boundary conditions are defined for accuracy and validated against 13 experimental specimens, exhibiting a maximum 8% and 12% difference in loads and deflections, respectively. A parametric study generates a dataset of 77 wide beam configurations, exploring variations in beam widths, concrete strengths, compression rebars, and shear reinforcement. This dataset is used to develop machine learning models, including “Genetic Programming (GP)”, “Evolutionary Polynomial Regression (EPR)”, and “Artificial Neural Network (ANN)”. Comparative analysis reveals GP and EPR models with over 95% correlation, while the ANN model outperforms with 99% accuracy. Sensitivity analysis underscores the significant influence of concrete strength and beam aspect ratio on shear strength. In conclusion, the study demonstrates the potential of FEA and machine learning models to predict shear strength in wide-shallow reinforced concrete beams, providing valuable insights for architectural design and engineering practices and emphasizing the role of concrete strength and beam geometry in shear behavior.