A multi-objective modeling approach for energetic material evaluation decisions

To develop ordnance for military applications requires a decision process of selecting materials. Once selected a performance evaluation of the material composite formulations energetic properties is required. Tailoring the composite materials for a particular ordnance application requires selecting reactants that seek an optimized combination of economic costs and performance properties (e.g., energy release, temperature, and gas generation). A successful energetic material evaluation must identify reactants offering a good fit with performance requirements and an overall materials selection strategy. To aid energetic material users in making complex reactant selection decisions we introduce a modeling approach that combines the concepts of thermodynamics, economic costs, and goal programming. This study is unique in its application of goal programming in exploring this type of decision situation. A case study is used to illustrate the modeling approach. The results demonstrate the efficacy of the approach for evaluating formulations where performance properties are important.