A decision-analytic approach to screening in chemical alternatives assessment

Material selection in the chemistry value chain involves consideration of many objectives, including cost, performance, health risk, and environmental impact. Alternatives assessment is an emerging tool for guiding complex decisions with respect to these goals. As a relatively new method, the process is not yet well developed, especially with respect to how trade-offs among objectives can be assessed accurately and inexpensively. Using paint strippers alternatives assessment as an illustrative example, we show how an established decision-analytic method, known as comparative screening, allows for a multistep process with gradually increasing information needs. Compared with existing methodological approaches, comparative screening instills flexible and consistent treatment of trade-offs. This is important because it maximizes the potential for a robust assessment while minimizing arduous data collection. Further, its use in the alternatives assessment process can support the selection of more sustainable materials.