Integrated Fuzzy Ranking Analysis for Assessing the Quality of Composting Products
Publication: Journal of Environmental Engineering
Volume 136, Issue 5
Abstract
An integrated fuzzy ranking analysis (IFRA) method was developed to help evaluate the quality of waste composts under a variety of system complexities and uncertainties. It combined the latent component analysis and ameliorated -index fuzzy relationship analysis into a general framework. The IFRA could handle different types of uncertainties, investigate the complex interrelationships among multiple indicators, and determine the best-quality product among a variety of alternatives. The IFRA was then applied to assess eight types of composts. An example standard was established in relation to potting grade and soil amendment. Two main policy scenarios were investigated. The obtained results could help decision makers distinguish the compost products by different usages, and distribute the products to appropriate markets. Moreover, the IFRA method could help promote new policies that would ultimately improve the marketing and development strategies for the composting industry.
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Acknowledgments
This research was supported by the Major State Basic Research Development Program (Grant Nos. UNSPECIFIED2006CB403307 and UNSPECIFIED2005CB7242010) and the Natural Science and Engineering Research Council of Canada.
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Information
Published In
Journal of Environmental Engineering
Volume 136 • Issue 5 • May 2010
Pages: 508 - 519
Copyright
© 2010 ASCE.
History
Received: Feb 10, 2009
Accepted: Oct 14, 2009
Published online: Oct 24, 2009
Published in print: May 2010
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