The use of fuzzy-weighted binary integer goal programming to select the optimum site for a central processing plant

Abstract

Fuzzy-weighted integer goal programming has been developed and used to select the most suitable site to construct a central processing plant for several adjacent small-scale dimension stone quarries, based on the most effective criteria. In the first step of mathematical modelling, the most important goals and decision variables were defined. Accordingly, an objective function was used in the model for minimizing the sum of undesired fuzzy-weighted deviations. Fuzzy weights were determined by a matrix of pairwise comparisons of various expert judgments in this field and the fuzzy geometric mean. The goal and systemic constraints were also modelled. The most suitable site for the construction of the plant was selected after solving the mathematical model in the Excel® Solver add-in. The selected site had various advantages over the other sites, such as the shortest average distance to the quarries, the shortest distance to power access and workforce, and the lowest land price.