Multiple-Objective Decision Analysis Applied to Chemical Engineering

Grauer, M., Lewandowski, A., & Wierzbicki, A.P. (1983). Multiple-Objective Decision Analysis Applied to Chemical Engineering. IIASA Research Report (Reprint). IIASA, Laxenburg, Austria: RR-84-015. Reprinted from Applied Systems Analysis, 4 [1983].

Preview

Text RR-84-15.pdf - Published Version Available under License Creative Commons Attribution. Download (3MB) | Preview

Abstract

The Interactive Decision Analysis Project at IIASA is studying both the theoretical basis of interactive decision support systems and their applications in a number of different fields. Such systems are of most use when decisions have to be made against a background of multiple and conflicting objectives, and they are therefore largely based on the theory of multiobjective decision analysis.

This paper looks at the uses of multiobjective decision analysis in the chemical engineering industry. This is a particularly interesting area from the point of view of multiobjective decision making because recent developments have forced chemical plants to give increased weight to noneconomic criteria such as environmental quality and safety at the expense of economic criteria such as profit, capital investment, and operating costs. In addition, it is more necessary than ever for the industry to be able to adapt its production strategy to take into account changes in the economic situation (changing prices, patterns of demand, etc.). The complexity of this system is such that it is now no longer possible to determine the best course of action without some formal analysis.

The techniques of multiobjective decision analysis can usefully be employed to help the plant manager find the best solution to these problems. Specific applications in process design, plant control, and production planning are described. Special emphasis is given to the reference-point approach to multiobjective decision making, and to an interactive software package (DIDASS) based on this approach which has been developed at IIASA.

Actions (login required)

View Item