Using the Analytical Hierarchy Process to Study the Industrial Air Pollution Control Equipment: Optimal Choice

Undoubtedly, the air pollution issue is one of the most prominent problems in today's societies. Therefore, one of the human goals is to enhance air quality. The main challenge in this paper is to choose the best air pollution control equipment based on the perspective of an analytical hierarchical process (AHP). The AHP is a multifaceted method of decision-making based on different regulations in order to achieve logical consequences, which Expert Choice software was employed. Cost parameters (operational and material), yield, environmental regulations, pollution sources and operating conditions are selected as process criteria. Also, cyclone separators, scrubbers, electrostatic precipitators, and fabric or bag filters are alternatives for this process. Due to a pairwise comparison of criteria, sub-criteria and alternatives in software, the electrostatic precipitator was chosen as the best control equipment with a preference of 38% over other apparatus. Also, the cost criterion was the most preferred with 31.2%.