Using RAM method for optimal selection of flame retardant nanocomposite material fabrication solution

Abstract

This study aimed to optimize the selection of manufacturing solutions for flame retardant nanocomposite materials based on polyvinyl chloride (PVC). A total of eight different options were considered. The first option utilized PVC as the base material, and the subsequent options were carried out by adding specific amounts of reinforcing agents, including aluminum hydroxide (ATH) and zinc borate (ZB). The seven following options were denoted by their respective symbols: 5ATH/PVC, 10ATH/PVC, 15ATH/PVC, 5ZB/PVC, 10ZB/PVC, 15ZB/PVC, and 5ATH/5ZB/PVC. The number preceding the symbol of the reinforcing agent represents the percentage of the reinforcing agent added to the PVC material. For example, 5ATH/PVC signifies the addition of 5% of ATH reinforcing agent to the PVC material. To evaluate each option, five different indices were employed. The weight for each index was determined using four different methods, including the Equal method, Entropy method, MEREC method, and LOPCOW method. The RAM method was used to select the best option. The combination of the RAM method and the four weight determination methods generated four different datasets of option rankings. In all four of these datasets, the best and worst options consistently matched. The results indicated that the 15ATH/PVC option was deemed the best, while the pure PVC option was the worst.