Selection of an optimal refinement condition to achieve maximum tensile properties of Al–15%Mg2Si composite based on TOPSIS method

Recently, in situ Al–Mg2Si composites have been introduced as a new group of particulate metal matrix composites which contain hard particles of Mg2Si in Al-matrix. Unfortunately, coarsening of Mg2Si particles deteriorates the mechanical properties so that it is an important obstacle for the wide application of this type of composites. Our previous investigations depicted that the addition of Na and Mn as alloying elements and solution treatment in the different range of temperature can refine Al–Mg2Si composite structure and improve tensile properties. Selection of the optimal refinement condition to achieve maximum tensile properties of Al–15%Mg2Si composite is a multiple attribute decision making (MADM) problem where some criteria must be considered in decision making. In present research, technique for order preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS) and fuzzy TOPSIS methods were employed in solving the case study problem. Weights of each criterion were determined by using an analytic hierarchy process (AHP) method in both TOPSIS and fuzzy TOPSIS methods. The obtained results showed that the employed methods were suitable approaches in solving case study problem. Empirical findings in this study represented that TOPSIS and fuzzy TOPSIS methods might lead to the choice of refined Al–15%Mg2Si via solution treatment at 450 °C as the preferred alternative.

► Optimal refinement condition selection for best tensile properties was a MADM problem.
► In multiple attribute decision making (MADM) some criteria must be considered.
► TOPSIS and fuzzy TOPSIS methods were employed in solving the case study problem.
► In both methods weights of each criterion were determined by using AHP method.
► The employed methods were suitable approaches in solving case study problem.