Optimal material selection of biocomposites for structural applications: an integrated fuzzy CRITIC-COPRAS approach

The material selection is a decisive factor in the development and workability of composites. The research proposed an integrated fuzzy CRiteria Importance Through Intercriteria Correlation (CRITIC) and Complex Proportional Assessment (COPRAS) for material selection of 3D printed biocomposites developed by using fruit waste-derived biofillers and biodegradable polymers. The objective was to develop a mathematical model for materials selection of biocomposites for structural applications such as floor tiles, pavements, building blocks, doors, etc. Also, the composites can be effectively implemented in places where the consideration for mechanical and tribological performance under ambient conditions such as sliding elements, automobiles bumpers and interiors, frames, etc. are of prime importance The novelty of the work can be highlighted from the development of novel biocomposites and mathematical model which can effectively deals with the material selection problems in conditions of vagueness and hesitancy in the decision makers. The work will save time and resources and reduce the cost of biocomposites. The work brings sustainability to the composites manufacturing industries. CThe RITIC approach has revealed that the impact strength is the most significant criterion, whereas sliding wear is the least significant factor for the composites. The approach has identified the reinforcement of 20 wt.% of banana peel powder with 80 wt.% of polylactic acid, i.e. alternative A4, as the most suitable material for structural applications, whereas alternative A6 is composed of 90 wt.% of PLA and 10 wt.% of hybrid biofillers of banana peel powder and orange peel powder (in equal proportions), is the least preferable alternative. The identified best composite has demonstrated an impact strength of 20,000 kJ/m² and a specific wear rate of 0.00066 mm³/N-m. Moreover, the composites have obtained an optimal hardness of 82.2 (shore D) and a good compressive strength of 68.81 MPa. The proposed integrated CRITIC-COPRAS approach has identified the ranking sequences of the alternatives as A4 > A7 > A8 > A1 > A2 > A5 > A3 > A6. The work has successfully developed a mathematical model to assist the materials selection process of eco-friendly composites and reduce the associated problems due to the mismanagement of plastics and agro-industrial wastes.