A multiattribute utility analysis of alternatives for the disposition of surplus weapons-grade plutonium

This paper describes an application of multiattribute utility theory to support the selection of a technology for the disposition of surplus weapons-grade plutonium by the Department of Energy (DOE). This analysis evaluated 13 alternatives, examined the sensitivity of the recommendations to the weights and assumptions, and quantified the potential benefit of the simultaneous deployment of several technologies. The measures of performance that were identified through the creation of a hierarchy of objectives helped to organize the information collected during the evaluation process, and the results of the analysis were presented to DOE on several occasions. This analysis supported the final DOE recommendation to pursue a strategy of the parallel development of two of the most preferred technologies.