A sequential decision-support framework coupling Grey-DEMATEL-TOPSIS and CFD for redevelopment of old industrial buildings

Despite extensive redevelopment initiatives for old industrial buildings in China, many have fallen short of achieving their intended socio-economic benefits. This shortcoming may be attributed to the lack of appropriate decision-support tools during preliminary project phases for selecting a suitable redevelopment model. This study proposes a sequential decision-support framework that couples Grey-based DEMATEL-TOPSIS with computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to guide the selection of redevelopment models for obsolete industrial structures. The framework establishes a multi-criteria evaluation system and employs CFD simulations to verify the environmental performance of the preferred option. Using the Xi’an Dahua Textile Factory as a case study, the creative industry park model was identified as the optimal choice, achieving a comprehensive superiority score of 74.17% amongst seven alternatives. CFD analysis confirmed the environmental rationality of this model in terms of wind environment and local pollutant dispersion, while also indicating the need to remove a proposed barbecue area due to localized pollution concerns. This coupled verification approach offers a scientifically grounded tool for decision-makers, enabling multi-dimensional assessment and environmental validation in the early stages of redevelopment projects.