Selection of Technology Acquisition Mode for Ethylene Using AHP Method

With possessing third and second positions in oil and gas respectively (EIA, 2010), Iran is considered one of the richest countries in the world. One of the most important and most valuable derivatives on gas, is ethane which is obtained with cracker processing method the valuable product, ethylene. Due to constant updated petrochemical industry, the making decision for the technology acquisition is very important.The purpose of this paper is to determine the most suitable mode of technology transfer in the frame work of AHP using the expertise of highly professional staff. According to the terms of Iran's petrochemical industry, eight strategies for the technology acquisition have been identified Included: research consortium, outsourcing, partnership, joint venture, buying technology, acquisition of the firm providing the technology, R & D and reverse engineering. Ultimately the research and development mode was identified as the most appropriate strategy for technology transfer of ethylene in Iran..