Multi-Criteria Decision-Making Analysis of Natural Fibers as Ceiling Liners in the Automotive Industry

Abstract

The development of biomass technology for the generation of bio-based goods and bioenergy will enable more economic and wise use of indigenous natural sources like agricultural residues, trees, and crops. Improving the recyclability and generation of new cars with natural-based materials is becoming increasingly important for car manufacturers as environmental protection becomes a top priority. In this study, a multiple-criteria decision analysis (MCDM) was carried out to obtain the most suitable natural fiber in terms of technical and structural properties in the case of the use of natural fiber-based materials as ceiling liners in the automotive industry. For this purpose, natural fiber materials that are used in the automotive industry as interior parts were investigated. Taking into account the required characteristics for ceiling liner production, the technical and structural properties of the 13 most commonly used materials were determined. A cross- comparative hierarchy analysis was then used to obtain the most proper natural fiber for ceiling liner material production in the automotive sector. The numerical results indicate that the weighted priority scores of 0.1383 and 0.1149 for pineapple and coir are higher than those for the remaining fiber types, making them attractive alternatives. The results of the research are important for decision- makers, automotive manufacturers, and engineers to use natural fibers appropriately and in the right place in the automotive industry.