Multi-objective Optimization of Buckling Load for a Laminated Composite Plate by Coupling Genetic Algorithm and FEM

In this paper, a mixed method has been developed by coupling Multi-Objective Genetic Algorithms (MOGA) and Finite Element Method (FEM). This method has been applied for determination of the optimal stacking sequence of laminated composite plate against buckling. The most important parameters in optimization of a laminated composite plate, e.g. angle, thickness, number, and material of each layer are considered in the proposed method. These optimization processes have been done for 3 types of compressive loads and optimal stacking sequences and Pareto front for each kind of compressive loads are determined. Unlike estimation methods like response surface and simple analytic methods, in the proposed optimization algorithm, objective functions are calculated directly by FEM software which leads to precise results. The results of the proposed algorithm are validated with the existing data in literature. The effects of different boundary conditions and aspect ratio of plate on Pareto front in buckling of a laminated composite plate are also studied.