Multicriteria evaluation of the selection of green glazing material by using the analytic hierarchy process (AHP)

The window glazing system provides comfortable living environment for residents and also exhibits the esthetics of architectural design. Its quality is dependent upon glass material selection; there are many factors determining glazing material selection, which might further affects the building safety and energy savings. An analytic hierarchy process (AHP) is used to analyze the trade-off of these impact factors. In the survey, both positive and negative impact factors on the glazing material selection are considered. The results, based on 40 expertise questionnaires, indicated that "performance", in overall, was perceived to be most important core selection criterion for the green glazing material, but among all assessed items, "hazardous substance release" was concerned the most. The "appearance" was regarded as a minor factor in this analysis. In addition, BIPV alternative was also ranked in the first position regardless of criteria weight variations. The results provide valuable information for building material manufacturers, architects and interior designers in selecting glass material in their the glazing system.