Multi Criteria Decision Making to Select the Suitable Method for the Preparation of Nanocrystals Using an Analytic Hierarchy Process

Purpose: This paper presents a systematic approach for selecting the right method for the preparation of nanocrystals. Aim: The aim of this paper is to provide an analytical tool to select the most appropriate method for the preparation of nanocrystals. Method: The tool that can be useful in determining the most appropriate method is the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP). One of the main advantages of this method is the relative ease with which it handles multiple criteria. In addition to this, AHP is easier to understand and it can effectively handle both qualitative and quantitative data. AHP involves the principles of pairwise comparisons, priority vector generation and synthesis. Results: The overall priorities of the subcriteria with respect to the criteria for each method are given and Method M2 Sonoprecipitation method scored 0.263, M4 Nanomorph® method scored 0.258, M1 Hydrosol method scored 0.239 and finally M3 Spray freezing into liquid (SFL) method scored 0.225.The alternative with the highest priority would achieve the goal as per Saaty. Hence, having worked out the AHP technique, the Sonoprecipitation method is judged to be the most suitable method for the preparation of nanocrystals. Conclusion: In this paper, AHP has been employed to capture the decision making process to provide reliable and efficient decision. Hence we can obtain consistent and best preferred decision easily and efficiently by using this tool.