Selection of the natural fiber for sustainable applications in aerospace cabin interior using fuzzy MCDM model

Abstract

The selection of natural fibers in composites for use in the interior of aerospace cabins requires an evaluation of performance scores against a variety of criteria defined in material standards. Due to many alternatives and criteria, the selection process becomes complex, and hence it is called a Multi-Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) problem. As a result, statistical methods are necessary to evaluate each fiber's performance score and choose the best possible alternative based on it. The primary objective of this study is to select the best natural fiber among twelve key alternatives through the use of Fuzzy integrated Analytic Hierarchical Process (AHP), Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) method, Evaluation Based on Distance from Average Solution (EDAS), and COmplex PRoportional ASsessment (COPRAS) method. This study also intends to analyze the obtained order of preferences’ sensitivity for these different MCDM models. This study intends to provide the first-ever insight into selecting the best natural fiber and their sensitivity to criteria weights for developing Natural Fiber Reinforced Polymer (NFRP) composites in aerospace cabin interior applications. The derived rankings of the natural fibers in this study are conclusive and significantly compelling to aid the researchers in concentrating their efforts on developing the best NFRP composites for applications in the aerospace cabin interior.