Optimal construction method evaluation for underground infrastructure construction

Rapid urbanisation in China calls for underground infrastructure construction (UIC). The optimal construction method for UIC can mitigate its impacts on surrounding environment and reduce construction costs. This study develops an intelligent multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) model to select the optimal construction method for complex and fuzzy construction environments. It comprises three stages: i) decision hierarchy establishment and data collection, ii) data processing, iii) MCDM modelling. In addition, the coefficient of variation for spherical fuzzy set is introduced to evaluate the degree of consensus on judgments of experts towards evaluated objects, which increases the reliability of the results. Besides, a decision hierarchy for the optimal construction method for UIC is outlined, which provides a guideline for engineering project management. A case study on infrastructure construction is conducted to evaluate the feasibility of the developed model. The developed model provides an alternative approach to address complex decision-making issues in the UIC field.