Description

using genetic algorithm method, a cement plastered strawbale masonry thickness was found to be suitable as load bearing element without compromising the structural integrity of the wall which has also led to reduction of cost. With regard to the load bearing capacity of the strawbale wall, the design strength of 3.6264N/mm2 for 350 to 450mm thickness, is found adequate. Genetic algorithm using Pareto based approach of crossover technique is robust, practical and a general purpose stochastic search-based optimisation and its fastness in computation that yields good result compared to graphical and other conventional techniques. This work has shown a significant stability in the overall conditions up to 10th year after the construction of a straw bale wall. The timing of the first maintenance indicates that in order to minimize the long-term maintenance costs, early treatments of the wall defects are necessary.