AHP Analysis of the Preference of Engineers for Suitable CFRP for Automobile Parts

A questionnaire survey was conducted and analyzed with the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) to evaluate the suitability of carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP) for use in automobile parts from an engineer’s viewpoint. The results indicated that carbon fiber has a higher potential for use in the framework than as an outer panel or exterior material. In addition, unidirectional and isotropic CFRPs can be used as alternatives to steel for higher-class automobiles. The critical evaluation criteria for carbon fiber are the material cost, safety, stiffness, and corrosion resistance. With the innovative carbon fiber project of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, CFRP has high potential as an alternative material for not only Class S but also Class A automobiles. In a dramatic innovation scenario with regard to the safety, stiffness, and thermal degradation of carbon fiber, CFRP was found to be a potential alternative material for more than half of the parts of Class A automobiles and several parts of Class C automobiles.