A multi-objective genetic algorithm for the hot mix asphalt problem

Abstract

It is desirable for the work done in any construction process to be both cost-effective and durable. A thorough consideration of the matter reveals that the optimization of real-world problems involves multiple objectives. Bituminous hot mixtures, which are widely used in motorway construction, consist of aggregate and bitumen. The ratio between the different types of aggregate and bitumen forms the input to the real-world problem defined in this article, and the results of a test of the obtained asphalt in three different fields form the output. Our aim is to optimize these three outputs simultaneously to obtain a solution space with the most appropriate inputs. To optimize this problem, a new multi-objective optimization approach is proposed and tested in various ways and is finally adapted to the hot mix asphalt problem. Since the mathematical model of the objective function for this problem is fairly difficult, a fuzzy logic expert system is developed to act as the objective function. We believe that our approach to solving complex problems such as these forms a significant contribution to the literature.